Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer to pair up at Laver Cup

Australian Open champion
Rafael Nadal and legendary Roger Federer will team up for the fifth edition of
the Laver Cup, to be held in London from September 23-25. Nadal and Federer
will represent Team Europe in the tournament.

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Federer, who paid a rich
tribute to Nadal for winning the Australian Open Grand Slam title and becoming the male player
with the most Grand Slam titles, said he is delighted to play with Nadal in
London for the Laver Cup.

“I’m really looking
forward to getting back into competition later this year and the Laver Cup is
very much part of my plan. It’s no secret that I love the event and I’m super
excited to be returning to The O2 and to London, one of the greatest cities in
the world,” said 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer.

Also Read: Roger Federer pays rich tribute to Rafael Nadal on winning 21st Grand Slam title

“Rafa is an incredible
person and an inspiration to me and countless others around the world. He
messaged me on social media after the Laver Cup in Boston last year suggesting
we play doubles in London and I am definitely up for a Laver Cup ‘Fedal’
comeback!,” Federer said.

Team Europe will take on
Team World in a bid to retain the Laver Cup for a fifth successive time under
the watchful eye of captain Bjorn Borg.

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Nadal was part of the Laver
Cup twice, in Prague and then again in Geneva in 2019. He paired up with Federer in
Prague in 2017 much to the delight of fans who earnestly watched two greats of the world tennis as they beat Americans Sam Querrey and Jack Sock in three sets.

“The Laver Cup is such
a unique event and I’ve loved competing in it. I suggested to Roger we should
play doubles together in London and he seems keen, so now we just need to
persuade our captain Bjorn,” Nadal said.

Also Read: Is Rafael Nadal the GOAT in the world of tennis?

“Roger has been a huge
part of my career, a big rival and also a true friend. To be part of Team
Europe together is great and if we’re able to possibly share the court one more
time as a doubles pairing then this would be a truly special experience for us
both at this stage in our careers,” he added.

Team Europe captain Borg is
naturally thrilled to be able to name his first two “Captain’s Picks”
as he builds Team Europe for 2022.

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“It doesn’t get much
better than being able to select Rafa and Roger for the Laver Cup in
London,” said Borg.

“What Rafa just
achieved at the Australian Open last weekend was incredible. He embodies the
spirit of our game and we are so lucky to have him and Roger as role models for
our sport. Two great champions, one incredible city and an iconic venue – it is
going to be truly momentous.”