'Is this a joke': Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal at centre of tennis outrage
Tennis fans wanting to see Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal potentially team up one more time at the Laver Cup will be expected to shell out a small fortune after ticket prices were released.
Last month, both Federer and Nadal announced their participating at this year's Laver Cup in September at London's O2 Arena.
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While Federer hasn't played since Wimbledon last July due to a third knee operation in August, the 40-year-old appears keen to play at least one more Laver Cup tournament.
And Nadal, fresh off winning his 21st grand slam title, hinted at teaming up with Federer in doubles for the tournament.
Tennis fans remember the iconic scenes when 'Fedal' teamed up to play doubles together at the first edition of the Laver Cup.
However, tickets were released on Monday for what could be the last time the pair are seen on the court together in a tournament.
And the tennis world were quick to condemn organisers for the 'ludicrous' prices.
Tickets for level 1G are going for more than $1,000.
The most expensive are going for $5,500.
Tennis fans were quick to slam the pricing, which has made attending the event unattainable for many.
Was really looking forward to @LaverCup this year, seemingly reasonable prices too at £185 each for 3 days.
Got through to book and it’s minimum £550 a ticket
Why does tennis continuously get it so so wrong, you want an atmosphere, get tennis fans in, not the corporates!— Matt (@SavvTennis) March 1, 2022
A joke 🙈🙈 pic.twitter.com/rBvbb1ioJg
— StuartG-LFC (@stuartgwilymLFC) March 1, 2022
Yep, just outrageous! Not paying that much money.
— Daniel Forero Molano (@Danielfor11) March 1, 2022
I'd have to remortgage my non-existent house to be able to afford those Laver Cup tickets.
— Scott Barclay (@BarclayCard18) March 1, 2022
Is this a joke..? 😱😱
— Iga in her HC era (@MaggieRobinsson) March 1, 2022
I still remember Federer pretending that Laver Cup was some sort event that will make tennis more accessible blah blah but it is just another cash cow for him and his agency. Just ridiculous prices. https://t.co/pEb98wuRIC
— USB (@Malaikoftaisbae) March 1, 2022
I’ve decided I can’t justify the costs of Laver Cup, even with saving up for it. The ticket prices are astronomical @LaverCup
— C’mon Museum! (@ChumJetzeAnyone) March 1, 2022
Absolutely shocked by the Laver Cup pre-sale ticket prices - ludicrous and unjustifiable. Also a great way to stop genuine fans from being able to go.
— Alice 🌻🇺🇦 (@walford_alice) March 1, 2022
those Laver Cup ticket prices are absolutely extortionate
— Rush 🐠 (@drivevolleys) March 1, 2022
if i paid those prices for laver cup i’d expect to be able to move in with roger for a year
— d (@rogerdiIferer) March 1, 2022
Unfortunately, with Nadal at 35 years old and Federer at 40 years old, there is also no guarantee the pair will play considering the number of injuries they have suffered in the latter stage of their illustrious careers.
Rafa Nadal excited for doubles with Roger Federer
While the next edition of the tournament is still later this year, to be held in London from September 23-25, Federer has signalled the tennis tournament is part of his plans.
"I'm really looking forward to getting back into competition later this year and Laver Cup is very much part of my plan," Federer said.
"It's no secret that I love the event and I'm super excited to be returning to The O2 and to London, one of the greatest cities in the world."
Both players will represent Team Europe as they take on Team World in a bid to retain the trophy for a fifth successive time under the watchful eye of captain Bjorn Borg.
And one of the reasons why ticket prices could be so expensive is because Nadal said the chance of taking the court with his friend maybe one last time during their professional careers would be a special experience.
"Roger has been a huge part of my career, a big rival and also a true friend," Nadal said.
"To be part of Team Europe together is great and if we're able to possibly share the court one more time as a doubles pairing than this would be a truly special experience for us both at this stage in our careers."
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