Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal were meant to clash for the 39th time in their career in the Indian Wells semifinal.

Unfortunately, that didn’t happen as Nadal had to withdraw following his right knee injury.

Nadal texted me about his injury. FEDERER

After Rafa withdrew, Roger decided to address the fans at the Stadium sharing what happened to say

“I was ready to go, warming up this morning and I heard Rafa was warming up on the outside courts. I thought the match was definitely on.

Then Rafa texted me a message saying, ‘It’s not going to be possible, my knee’s not well, and I can’t do it.’ I went back to the house and relaxed.

I am obviously excited to be in the finals, but not this way. He played so well this week, and I thought he was playing some of his best tennis again.

I was really looking forward to the match, and I’m sorry it didn’t happen. Our rivalry is different now. When he was coming up, I was world No 1, and he was 17.

It was cute at the time. Not so much anymore. We’ve had so many epic battles, and I know now that everyone we have could be our last. Was this our last chance? I hope not.”