Roger Federer 'considering retirement U-turn' for blockbuster tennis clash

Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 23/09/2024

- 21:32

The 43-year-old is considering an incredible return to tennis

Roger Federer 'would consider' coming out of retirement to face old rival Rafa Nadal and settle a score once and for all.

The 20-time Grand Slam winner has been retired from tennis since 2022 but his manager Tony Godsick has given quite the update on his future.


He admitted that it is his dream to see Federer pick up his racket and face Nadal one more time.

Real Madrid's stadium the Bernabeu, which was recently redeveloped, could play host and Godsick insisted that only Nadal could tempt the Swiss maestro back onto the court.

Roger Federer

Roger Federer could consider returning to tennis

PA

Especially considering the interest that was generated in 2020 when the two tennis legends broke the attendance record for a tennis match while playing an exhibition in South Africa.

"Since Roger Federer retired he hasn't wanted to play another match as long as he doesn't feel physically well," Godsick said.

"To my mind comes the record of spectators that they beat in South Africa.

"We like to do big things. If there is an option to beat that one day, I'm sure Roger will consider it.

"They both like to collaborate and I like working with [Nadal's agent] Carlos Costa. I have very good memories.

JUST IN: Max Verstappen threatens to quit Formula One for good

"We did the half-grass, half-earth exhibition in Mallorca. Anything is possible in the future.”

The last time Federer played was on September 23 in 2022 - exactly two years ago.

It came alongside Nadal in the Laver Cup, who despite being a long-term rival has also been a close friend.

READ MORE: Andy Burnham admits taxpayer cash could go towards Man Utd amid Old Trafford redevelopment

Earlier this year, Federer admitted he could return alongside Nadal if he was offered a doubles match.

He said in June: “I don’t think we’ll play doubles together at the Laver Cup, but if he asks me, I’ll definitely be there.”

However, at the end of 2023, Federer poured cold water on rumours he would return to the sport.

LATEST SPORT NEWS:

Roger Federer

Roger Federer retired from tennis two years ago

PA

“When you know the knee doesn’t allow you to play at this level, the mind doesn’t even go there that I could be on court right now,” he said.

“So you just enjoy tennis for what it is, and I follow results almost daily, I like to see what is going on out there.

“It’s not even a thought. I had a great time but I dive back in. I go with the flow and I like that no day is ever the same so it is great.”

You may like