Meeting Federer will be a special moment, says Nadal
The tennis fraternity and fans around the globe are getting ready for another special match between legends Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. The two stalwarts are set to meet in the semi-final of the 2019 French Open. This would be a 39th career meeting between the two GOATs. Before the match, Nadal said meeting Federer on the court would be a special moment.
How have the legends performed till now?
Nadal surged past Kei Nishikori in the quarters. He tamed the Japanese 6-1, 6-3, 6-3 in straight sets to reach a record-extending 12th semi-final at the Roland Garros. Meanwhile, Federer had a tough time against Stan Wawrinka. The veteran Swiss ace won the tie 7-6 (7-4), 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4 to book a berth in the last four.
Stat attack: Nadal vs Federer
Nadal boasts of a 23-15 advantage in the head-to-head meetings against 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer. But it is Federer who has been victorious in their past five matches. On clay, the stats read 13-2 in favor of Rafa. The Spaniard has won 11 French Open trophies, whereas, Federer has pocketed just one. Nadal has a 5-0 lead over Federer at Roland Garros.
Nadal on facing Federer in French Open 2019 semis
"Having Roger in the semi-finals is an extra thing. We shared the most important moments of our careers together on court. It's another episode of this, and I'm happy and excited. It will be a special moment, and let's try to be ready for it."
Nadal goes into the semi-final as favorite
Rafa has dropped just one set in French Open 2019. He is in prime form at the moment. Further, he has always been the undisputed leader of Paris. One expects Nadal to continue his run and get the better of Federer. If Nadal wins the French Open 2019, then it will be his 18th Slam. This will be a special moment for the Spaniard.
Federer satisfied with his performance at Roland Garros
"But I'm very happy, number one, to be back in another semi-final of a Grand Slam. It hasn't happened in the last year or so. I had some tough losses in fourth rounds or quarters. So from that standpoint, I exceeded my expectations here."
Federer needs to be credited for a superb run
Federer needs to be credited for his superb run at Roland Garros 2019. He made a return to French Open after missing the event in 2016, 2017 and 2018. The 37-year-old knows that he has nothing to lose against the best player on clay. Whoever wins, tennis fans are up for a treat this week.
