Roger Federer reveals what makes him and Rafael Nadal such good FRIENDS
ROGER FEDERER has explained why he shares a special friendship with Rafael Nadal off the court.
Roger Federer on verge of tears when talking about Nadal
Federer usurped Nadal earlier this month to regain the top spot in the world rankings.
The pair have enjoyed a storied rivalry over the years and have claimed 36 Grand Slam titles between them.
They have met each other on the court 38 times in their career, with Nadal enjoying the better head-to-head record (23-15).
Federer has enjoyed a fabulous start to the 2018 season, lifting his 20th Grand Slam title in the form of the Australian Open as well as the Rotterdam Open last month.
Roger Federer is the most decorated sportsman in Laureus history
We’re good friends off the court, because we have shared special moments away from it
The Swiss legend became the most decorated Laureus Awards winner this evening when he was named Sportsman of the Year for the fifth time in his career.
And after picking up his award, Federer was asked about his friendship with Nadal.
He said: “We’re good friends off the court, because we have shared special moments away from it.
“Perhaps, because of charity games for his foundation and his matches for my foundation.
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal share a good friendship off the court
“I helped him open his academy and obviously there are all the matches we have played against one another which connect you.
“When you lose against a guy in the fifth set or beat a guy in the fifth, there’s something special there.
“We enjoy each other's company and fans know that too.”