Former world no. 1 Roger Federer will team with longtime rival and friend Rafael Nadal on Friday at the Laver Cup, which will be his final tour-level match.
Following the conclusion of Andy Murray’s match against Alex de Minaur, the Swiss and Spaniard will take to court against Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe at The 02 in London.
During Team Europe’s post-tournament press conference on Thursday, Federer said: “I am not sure if I will be able to handle it all but I will try. I’ve had some tough moments in the past, being horribly nervous. All these years. This match feels a whole lot different. Playing with Rafa feels really different.”
On the other hand, Nadal said: “To be part of this historic moment is amazing and unforgettable for me. I am super excited and I hope I can play at a good level. Hopefully, together we can create a good moment and hopefully win a match.”
Last week, the former world no. 1 and 103 tour-level titlist Federer had announced that the Laver Cup, the three-day event which will begin from Friday, will be the final tournament of his career.
Notably, the Laver Cup will see Team Europe face Team World in a series of singles and doubles matches.
Apart from the duo, the Team Europe will be represented by Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Matteo Berrettin and alternate Cameron Norrie at The O2, with captain Bjorn Borg leading the side. On the other side, captain John McEnroe will be leading the Team World and would aim to register its first victory against Team Europe.
Team World will be represented by Felix Auger-Aliassime, Taylor Fritz, Diego Schwartzman, Alex de Minaur, Tiafoe, Sock and alternate Tommy Paul.