Roger Federer retires: Former rival Rafael Nadal says 'it's a sad day for me'!

(File pic) Switzerland`s Roger Federer (R) shakes hands and embraces Spain`s Rafael Nadal (L) after Federer won their men`s singles semi-final match of the 2019 Wimbledon Championships. Photo/AFP

Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer will retire after next week's Laver Cup after admitting on Thursday his battles with a knee problem had forced him to call time on his historic career. "The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event," he said in a statement posted on social media. The 41-year-old winner of 20 Grand Slam titles has been out of action since a quarter-final loss at Wimbledon in 2021, after which he underwent his third knee surgery in 18 months.

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His former foe cum friend Rafael Nadal took to Twitter to express his 'sadness' about Federer's retirement. He wrote,"Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It's a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It's been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court."

Nadal further wrote, "We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what's ahead of you. I'll see you in London @LaverCup."

(With inputs from AFP)