Nadal Open to Exhibition With Federer
Rafael Nadal says he would consider a future exhibition match with Roger Federer, with the two in near-weekly contact.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Tennis
Rafael Nadal said he is open to a future exhibition match with Roger Federer, noting that the two are in almost weekly contact. Federer retired at the Laver Cup more than four years ago, and the pair have not played an exhibition match together.
Why it matters
A reunion would revive interest in one of tennis's most prominent rivalries, though Nadal indicated it would require the right reason and place. Federer's retirement closed his competitive career, leaving any joint appearance dependent on an exhibition format.
The reported timeline shows Federer's Laver Cup retirement more than four years ago, where he and Nadal lost a doubles final together, and his final career end at the Davis Cup Finals two years ago. No exhibition match between the two has been confirmed, and no date or venue has been announced.
The players
Rafael Nadal
Spanish tennis champion widely regarded as one of the greatest clay-court players in history, who runs the Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor.
Roger Federer
Swiss tennis legend who won 22 Grand Slam singles titles before retiring, and is among the most decorated players in the sport's history.
The details
Nadal said he and Federer talk almost every week and have shared a round of golf, but they did not discuss younger players such as Alcaraz, Sinner, or Zverev. Nadal framed a joint exhibition as possible only if the right reason and place came together.
Timeline
More than four years ago: Federer retired at the Laver Cup, losing a doubles final alongside Nadal.
Two years ago: Federer ended his career at the Davis Cup Finals.
Last month: Andy Murray visited Mallorca, where Team Nadal beat Team Murray in a series of 10-point tiebreaks.
Season Trajectory
Federer and Nadal's Laver Cup doubles final marked the last time the two shared a competitive court, and any exhibition would revisit that partnership after both players left the tour. The conversation fits a broader pattern of retired stars returning for ceremonial matches rather than full competition.
Any exhibition would be a one-off event rather than a competitive series, so fans should watch for an official announcement on date and venue. Nadal's comments do not yet establish a schedule or ticket availability.
The takeaway
Nadal's comments suggest a Federer exhibition is possible but unscheduled, and the two retired stars' ongoing contact keeps the idea alive. Readers should treat it as an open question until a date and place are announced.
Further reading
For more on the sport's current players and events, explore Tennis coverage.
