Roger Federer's decision to retire from tennis is a "sad day" for sport, his great rival Rafael Nadal has said, BBC reported.
Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam champion, announced on Thursday that he would retire after the Laver Cup this month.
Only Spain's Nadal, with 22 majors, and Serbia's Novak Djokovic, with 21, have more men's Grand Slam singles titles than the 41-year-old.
"Dear Roger, my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come," Nadal posted on social media.
"It's a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world."
Nadal defeated Federer 24 times in 40 matches during one of the most celebrated rivalries in tennis history, according to BBC.
"It's been a pleasure but also an honour and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court," Nadal said.
"We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that.
"For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what's ahead of you. I'll see you in London."
