Roger Federer's stylish response to Rafael Nadal after his tennis rival's retirement message

Roger Federer has thanked Rafael Nadal following his retirement message to the Swiss legend. Federer announced on Thursday that he will be retiring from tennis after the upcoming Laver Cup next week.

The 41-year-old will play alongside Nadal in the London tournament before retiring from the sport. Nadal paid tribute to the 20-time Grand Slam singles champion following his retirement announcement.

Posting on his Instagram page, the Spaniard wrote: "Dear Roger, my friend and rival. I wish this day had never come... it's a sad day for me personally and for the sportsmen of the world. I told you when we spoke and now it's here.

"It has been a pleasure but also an honor and a privilege to share all these years with you, to experience so many incredible moments on and off the pitch. We will have many more moments to share together in the future. , there are still many things to do together, we know that.

"For now, I really wish you all the best with your wife, Mirka, your children, your family and enjoy what lies ahead. I'll see you in London at the @lavercup."

And now Federer has responded to his great rival. He reposted Nadal's post on his Instagram story and replied, "Thanks for the kind words, Rafa", along with a shaking hands emoji.

Federer and Nadal have faced each other 40 times during their career on the ATP Tour. Nadal won 24 to 16 for Federer, with many clashes to come in the later stages of major tournaments.

Federer has been hampered by knee injuries in recent seasons. He hasn't played since Wimbledon 2021 and he admitted in his retirement statement that a return to the tour was a step too far for him.