"Spoiled in an era of legends" - Former Roger Federer coach reacts to Rafael Nadal and Swiss jointly missing first French Open since 1998

In a significant shift for the world of tennis, the 2023 Roland Garros tournament will be the first in 25 years without the presence of either Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal. This momentous occurrence has arisen due to the retirement of Roger Federer in 2022 and Nadal's decision to skip the French Open this year due to injury.

Federer, widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, announced his retirement from the sport last year. With 20 Grand Slam titles to his name, Federer's impact on the sport is irrefutable.

Meanwhile Nadal, the holder of an impressive 14 French Open titles, elucidated his reasons for skipping the Clay Major during a detailed press conference earlier this week. Citing physical health management as his primary concern, the Spaniard emphasized the demanding nature of a rigorous tournament like the French Open.

His decision, while leaving a noticeable gap in the draw, has received widespread support from the tennis community.

Paul Annacone, Roger Federer's former tennis coach, recently expressed his sentiments on the Spaniard's French Open withdrawal via Twitter.

"we have been spoiled in an era of legends no @RafaelNadal @rolandgarros is a harsh reminder to us all to appreciate - he will be sadly missed," he wrote.

Looking back at the epic rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal

Laver Cup 2022 - Day One

The rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal is one of the greatest in the history of tennis, if not all of sports.

Emerging from Basel, Switzerland, Federer turned pro in 1998 and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His style, defined by its elegance and precision, saw him make a quick rise through the ranks.

Nadal, hailing from Manacor, Spain, turned pro in 2001. His powerful, relentless style, particularly effective on clay courts, saw him challenging the upper echelons of the game in a remarkably short period of time.

The rivalry between the two players began in earnest in 2004, when a young Nadal defeated Federer in Miami. Over the years the rivalry grew in intensity, with both players pushing each other to their limits on the grandest stages of tennis.

Their matches were marked by exceptional shot-making, long rallies, and a fierce competitiveness that only enhanced their mutual respect.

Federer and Nadal faced off 40 times, with Nadal leading the head-to-head 24-16. They featured in several iconic Grand Slam finals, including the epic 2008 Wimbledon final - widely regarded as one of the greatest matches in the history of the sport.

Despite their rivalry on the court, Federer and Nadal share a deep mutual respect and friendship off it, often speaking highly of each other in interviews. This dichotomy of fierce competition and camaraderie has been a hallmark of their rivalry, and a big factor in its longevity and resonance within the sport.