Federer recalls the classic Australian Open battles against Nadal, moments that still give him goosebumps.

Federer and Nadal have nearly dominated the tennis world for a full two decades. During this long rivalry of lifelong foes, they met 40 times in total. At a promotional event for the 2026 Australian Open, Federer reflected on their two legendary clashes at Rod Laver Arena in 2009 and 2017, and the 20-time Grand Slam champion couldn’t help but reminisce.

“That 2009 match, I truly believe it was an incredible contest,” Federer said. “I think that year we played some fantastic tennis against each other, which is a bit unfortunate because I felt I played very well, so it was one of those finals where you think, ‘I could have won but didn’t’... Then obviously 2017. For me, that was the match of matches, maybe the most important in my entire career, and I’m really glad it happened here.”

In 2009, with the stands packed, no one could have predicted what they were about to witness. The two superstars delivered a textbook duel, countering each other’s attacks with remarkable precision. The final lasted a staggering 4 hours and 23 minutes, extending past midnight, with Nadal, making his first Australian Open final appearance, winning 7-5, 3-6, 7-6(3), 3-6, 6-2. He also became the first Spanish man to claim this top-tier title, cementing his status as a superstar.

Praising Nadal’s movement, Federer noted that Nadal’s defense was simply unbelievable, which ultimately became the Swiss maestro’s “downfall.” However, Federer later avenged this loss by making up for the 2009 disappointment in another epic showdown.

In 2017, the two met again on the same court. Both stars had returned after long injury layoffs. But as soon as they faced each other on the court, they instantly entered “God mode.” During the match, Nadal led 3-1 at one point. Federer quickly responded with force, taking the lead at 4-3. Then came a memorable moment — at deuce, an epic 26-shot rally unfolded, leaving the crowd breathless before erupting into thunderous applause.

The rally ended with the Swiss legend scoring a point with his signature forehand down the line, breaking the “Nadal curse.” Federer ultimately triumphed 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3.

“I’ve missed too many break points against Rafa before, so maybe it didn’t mean much, but now that I won it, that point will be remembered, possibly my favorite in my career. I’m really, really happy,” Federer concluded. At that moment, the crowd at Rod Laver Arena seemed to relive the endless applause from that 2017 match.

Meanwhile, with both superstars now retired, Federer recently hinted that he is ready to launch a “Fedal Tour.”

For nearly two decades, the center of the tennis world revolved around two familiar figures walking onto the court from opposite sides of the net — Federer and Nadal. These two names defined an era through their rivalry and mutual respect. Even after they put down their rackets, fans still cherish those years. Months after Nadal’s retirement, Federer reminded the world of the legendary chapter they wrote together.

The Swiss maestro officially retired after a doubles match partnering Nadal at the 2022 Laver Cup in London. Two years later, Nadal also bid farewell to professional tennis at the Davis Cup. In September 2025, Federer announced something that thrilled tennis fans — his interest in teaming up with Nadal to launch a “Fedal Tour.”

In an interview with CNBC, Federer said, “Yeah, why not? I love Rafa. I know Rafa is totally willing to maybe play some more tennis. Calling it ‘senior tennis’ sounds a bit lame, but maybe we can create a tour, like a Fedal Tour or something.”

Though retirement is behind them, their friendship remains strong. Federer’s idea of a “Fedal Tour” hints at a new chapter. This concept has already excited fans, and whether it will become a reality may only be answered with time.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)