It was hard to argue with the American's logic as he pondered the historical significance of the tussle between his pal and frequent tormentor on court, 17-time grand slam winner Federer, and 14-time grand slam winner Nadal. No tandem has won more grand slam titles in the men's game than Federer, 35, and Nadal, 30. Beset by constant injuries, Nadal last contested a grand slam final at the 2014 French Open, while Federer last featured in a major final at the 2015 US Open. Nadal leads the rivalry 23-11 overall, 6-2 in grand slam finals and 9-2 in all grand slam matches. "Maybe I lost the Wimbledon final in 2008 because of too many clay-court matches, because he crushed me at the French Open final," Federer told reporters.

Source: CNN January 28, 2017 19:18 UTC