Nole breaks his silence over Federer's retirement: It's been an honour

Novak Djokovic paid a warm tribute to his rival Roger Federer on Friday, saying they had enjoyed "a decade of incredible moments and battles" after the Swiss great's announcement that he will retire after the Laver Cup this month.

Djokovic, reacting 24 hours after Federer said he was quitting, said on social media: "Your career has set the tone for what it means to achieve excellence and lead with integrity and poise. It's an honour to know you on and off court, and for many more years to come."

Rafael Nadal also congratulated Federer on his extraordinary career while Serena Williams welcomed the 41-year-old Swiss to the "retirement club" after the American herself quit the game this month.

On Thursday, Federer admitted his battles with a knee problem had forced him to call time on a historic career that has yielded 20 Grand Slam titles and earned him a reputation as one of the most elegant players the game has ever seen. It was not a total surprise as he has been out of action since a quarter-final loss at Wimbledon in 2021. After that match he underwent his third knee surgery in 18 months as time caught up with him.

Federer said in a social media statement that his 24 years on the tour had been "an incredible adventure".

"While it sometimes feels like it went by in 24 hours, it has also been so deep and magical that it seems as if I have already lived a lifetime."

Knee problems restricted him to only three of the 11 Grand Slams played since the start of 2020 and he said his body had sent him "a message".

"Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career."

Djokovic, who is six years younger than Federer and has collected Grand Slam titles as the Swiss player's powers have dimmed, had been conspicuous by his absence among the tributes on Thursday. But a day later he broke the silence.

"Roger, it's hard to see this day and put into words all that we've shared in this sport together. Your career has set the tone for what it means to achieve excellence and lead with integrity and poise. It's an honour to know you on and off court, and for many more years to come."

The duo played 17 matches at Grand Slam tournaments, including five finals, with Djokovic leading that head-to-head 11-6.

Tennis has now lost two of its greatest names in quick succession, after the 40-year-old Williams bowed out following a third-round defeat at the US Open this month. Williams, who won 23 major titles, greeted fans on Instagram.

"I wanted to find the perfect way to say this, as you so eloquently put this game to rest -- perfectly done, just like your career. I have always looked up to you and admired you. Our paths were always so similar, so much the same. You inspired countless millions and millions of people -- including me -- and we will never forget."

Nadal, arguably Federer's greatest on-court rival, said it had been "an honour" to face him. The pair played 40 times, including nine Grand Slam finals, with Nadal holding a 24-16 winning record.

"It's a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world," Nadal tweeted.

Federer will finish his career behind only Nadal, with 22, and Djokovic, with 21, on the all-time list for most men's Grand Slam titles. Djokovic held a 27-23 winning record over Federer from 50 meetings.

© Agence France-Presse