Roger Federer before the farewell match: "I'm not sure if I can handle it"

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Roger Federer ahead of the Laver Cup in London

Photo: James Manning / dpa

The Swiss tennis superstar Roger Federer will play his last official match this Friday.

At the Laver Cup in London he will play doubles with his longtime rival and friend Rafael Nadal against the US duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe (9.30 p.m. / Eurosport).

The 41-year-old approaches the match with great respect and humility.

"I hope to be good out there and of course I want to enjoy it," said Federer, "but it will certainly be tough."

About a week ago, Federer announced the end of his career after three knee surgeries.

Björn Borg, team boss of the European selection for the 20-time Grand Slam tournament champion, fulfilled his wish to appear as a professional alongside Nadal one last time.

His doubles partner Nadal said: "After all the great things we shared together on and off the pitch, it is something unforgettable for me to be part of this historic moment." In view of Federer's set age and his injured knee , he added: "I hope we can reach a decent level together and maybe win the game."

Federer admitted to being nervous.

"I'm not sure if I can handle it," said the Swiss, looking at the emotions that would surely arise.

"I've often been nervous before big matches, but it feels completely different." The long-time number one in the world was celebrated by around 10,000 spectators during training on Thursday in London.

The Laver Cup pits a European team against a selection of players from the rest of the world from this Friday through Sunday.

see/dpa