Federer reflects on exhibitions with Nadal and considers a "Fedal Tour"
Roger Federer has confirmed his interest in playing post-career exhibitions with Rafael Nadal, saying he is excited by the idea after recent comments from Team8 CEO Tony Godsick suggested a joint tour could be possible. Speaking to Swiss newspaper Tages-Anzeiger, Federer explained what draws him to the concept, how it might work, and why it appeals to both players at this stage of their lives.
Federer admitted the proposal energizes him. “It would be great if that could be done,” he said. “If we played exhibitions after our careers, we would have more time and wouldn’t have to rush to the next competition. I could imagine combining all of that with a good cause, raising funds for my foundation and inspiring young people there.”
Roger Federer on playing exhibitions with Rafa Nadal:
— Swish 🍒 Tennis (@Zwxsh) November 26, 2025
"It would be great if it worked out. If we played exhibitions after our playing careers, we'd have more time and wouldn't have to rush to the next match. I could imagine combining it with a good cause, raising money for my… pic.twitter.com/DoRBV9iShv
The idea comes as Federer remains visible at tennis events such as the Laver Cup, while Nadal spends more time away from the tour, balancing training at his academy (Rafa Nadal Academy). Even so, the memories of their previous exhibitions remain fresh for fans. Their record-setting South Africa event in 2020 and earlier stops in Zurich and Madrid drew enormous crowds, which explains their global pull the pair still commands.
Federer has also stayed physically ready. “I played four hours of tennis the other day here in San Francisco, and then LA also another hour and a half before that. So I’ve been playing a lot, so I’m trying to keep in good shape,” he said. Nadal, he believes, would embrace the idea as well. “And I know that Rafa is also totally open to maybe play some tennis. It sounds terrible, seniors tennis, to us, but maybe we can create a tour, like a Fedal tour or something like that.”
Once upon a time at the Laver Cup… ⏳🤩
— TNT Sports (@tntsports) September 18, 2025
Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer teamed up in doubles… you would not want to see this from the other side of the court 🤝😳 pic.twitter.com/757804IdO3
While some have speculated that Federer could transition into commentary, he clarified that such a move is not on the horizon. “Not at the moment, I’m focusing on my kids; it’s time to be interested in what’s important before they leave home… I’ll be happy to share my advice,” he said.
Roger Federer is nominated for the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026.
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 1, 2025
🇨🇭❤️ pic.twitter.com/T4ys1iZ8Dw
For now, Federer continues mentoring young players and engaging with the sport through exhibitions. Yet the possibility of a joint tour with Nadal carries a unique weight. It indicates playing for the love of tennis and not points or trophies. Milestones are obviously important, but the sheer legacy and appeal of seeing legends back in action is beautiful in its own right.
Mandatory Image Credit: Peter van den Berg-USA TODAY Sports
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mma I’m an academic turned sports writer from Raipur, India, specializing in the NFL, MMA, and tennis at The Playoffs. I previously wrote for Sportskeeda and hold a B.A. and M.A. in History. My journey into sports media began far from the field, rooted in the arts and sciences. Funny enough, I didn’t grow up a sports fan; I used to see it all as just noise. But a fateful writing job introduced me to the world of sports, and what began as a gig quickly became a passion. I understood those voices aren’t noise; they’re emotions of true sports fans, and now I am one of them, writing with the same energy I once questioned.
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