16-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal has revealed that his good friend Roger Federer took a big risk during the 2017 season that turned out to be extremely successful for the Swiss.
According to the World No. 1 Nadal, by playing a limited schedule on the ATP tour the 36-year-old Federer took an extremely risky decision of earning maximum ATP points from a relatively small number of tournaments. Unlike Nadal, who appeared in 18 events in 2017, Roger participated in just 12 and won a tour-topping seven titles.
Federer’s bold move paid rich dividends as he succeeded in taking his Grand Slam tally to 19 from 17 after winning the Australian Open in January by beating Nadal in an epic five-set final in Melbourne and then during the British summer won a record 8th Wimbledon crown after annihilating Marin Cilic of Croatia in straight sets.
Nadal said lauding his great rival, as quoted by the Express.
“He had a fantastic year,” the Spaniard said.
“What he did is very difficult. Playing so less, being able to win almost every time you return to play is a very big risk.
“When it goes well, it seems it’s right but in truth it’s very difficult that it happens the way it did.
“If you try it again, you may not be as successful as you were this year. But well, I am 31 and he’s 36. I have my career and he has his own.
“I do what I believe is better for me by always getting help from doctors, coaches, physical trainers, and deciding with my team.
“Together we come to an agreement that is better for my body and tennis.”
