Roger Federer makes Rafael Nadal feelings clear after 'not friends' claim with bold proposal

For years, the world has been enthralled by the legendary duel between and - a rivalry that came to symbolise a golden age of the sport. But behind the scenes, speculation has persisted about the nature of their bond, with some wondering whether mutual admiration ever evolved into authentic friendship.

Now that both icons have stepped away from the game, Federer has made his thoughts on the matter clear through a touching and unexpected gesture. The Swiss legend, who retired back in 2022, made an appearance at Augusta National during last week.

While speaking to ESPN's John Sutcliffe among the blooming azaleas, Federer mentioned he'd been learning . When asked if he'd be up for a round against Nadal - who is also passionate about the sport - the 20-time major winner proposed something more heartfelt.

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"We should play together," the 43-year-old said with a chuckle. "I think we've played enough against each other."

The remark landed with the precision of a signature Federer forehand. After years of fierce on-court duels with Nadal, he now envisions a future rooted not in rivalry, but in camaraderie.

His words may help put to rest any lingering doubts about the sincerity of their relationship. Back in November, Nadal had said he "wouldn't consider Federer a friend". However, the Spaniard soon , stating just weeks later that he was a "close friend" of his.

Federer's suggestion of teaming up on the golf course appears to confirm that sentiment and points to a true willingness to make new memories with his long-time adversary.

Federer didn't just talk about Nadal, though. Reflecting on his tennis journey, he offered thoughtful advice when asked how he handled the immense pressure of Grand Slam matches. "Simplify it," he said. "Go shot by shot. You can't climb Everest in an hour."

That philosophy helped him claim 103 titles - outpacing Nadal's 92 - and it's an approach he's bringing to golf, a discipline he admits keeps him grounded. "I can finally appreciate the difficulty," he admitted. "I took my first golf lessons a year and a half ago, and there I go, progressing little by little."

The iconic course at Augusta even stirred memories of for Federer - a venue where he and Nadal shared many of their most iconic battles. Nadal's own career came to a close last November at the Davis Cup, with the 38-year-old retiring with 22 Grand Slam trophies - trailing only 24 - under his belt.

Nadal has often expressed admiration for Federer and was visibly emotional during Federer's farewell at the 2022 Laver Cup. They faced each other 40 times during their decorated careers, including in nine Grand Slam finals - where Nadal held the edge with six victories to Federer's three.

Though their clashes were fierce, they were always laced with deep respect - a sentiment that Federer's recent golf idea only strengthens.

Whether the two legends eventually walk Augusta's pristine fairways together is uncertain, but one thing's clear: the Federer-Nadal story isn't over yet, it's just heading to a different stage.