David Ferrer admits he won't ‘hold back’ tears on the imminent retirement of Rafael Nadal

Ferrer and Nadal, who have been friends since they were children, have enjoyed a long and successful rivalry on the court.

But it is their friendship off the court that Ferrer says he will cherish the most.

David Ferrer has admitted that he will not be able to hold back the tears when his great friend and rival Rafael Nadal eventually retires from tennis.

Nadal, 36, has hinted that he could call time on his illustrious career after this year's Wimbledon Championships.

And Ferrer, who retired in 2019, says it will be a sad day for the sport when Nadal finally hangs up his racket.

"I'm sure it will be a very emotional day for me," Ferrer told ATPTour.com.

"We've known each other since we were kids, and we've shared so many great moments together on and off the court.

"He's not just a great player, he's also a great friend, and I'll miss him a lot when he's gone."

Ferrer and Nadal have enjoyed a long and successful rivalry on the court, with Nadal holding a 24-6 head-to-head record.

But it is their friendship off the court that Ferrer says he will cherish the most.

"We've always had a great relationship," Ferrer said.

"We've always respected each other, even though we've been rivals on the court.

"I think that's what makes our friendship so special."

Nadal has won 22 Grand Slam singles titles, the most by any male player in history.

He is also one of only three players to have won all four Grand Slams at least twice.

Ferrer, who won 27 ATP singles titles, says Nadal's achievements are all the more impressive given the injuries he has had to overcome.

"He's had so many injuries, but he's always come back stronger," Ferrer said.

"That shows just how much he loves the game and how determined he is to be the best."

Ferrer says he is not sure what Nadal will do after he retires from tennis.

But he hopes that Nadal will stay involved in the sport in some capacity.

"I think he would be great as a coach or a commentator," Ferrer said.

"He has so much knowledge about the game, and he's always willing to share it with others."

Nadal has not yet announced a retirement date, but Ferrer says he will be ready to say goodbye when the time comes.

"I'll be there for him when he retires," Ferrer said.

"I'll be there to give him a hug and to tell him how much he means to me."

And Ferrer is sure that Nadal will continue to be a success in whatever he does after tennis.

"He's a winner," Ferrer said.

"He's a champion. And he'll always be a champion, no matter what he does."