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Nadal hits back at Federer with cheeky sledge

Roger Federer has completely dominated Rafael Nadal in 2017, and by the looks of things the World No.1 isn't too happy about it.

Federer and Nadal have been the story of 2017, enjoying a vintage resurgence that sees them currently sitting No.1 and 2 in the world.

Before the Australian Open in January, Nadal was ranked No.9 while Federer was way down at 16.

But the tennis legends have bounced back to peak form this year, splitting the four grand slams between them - Australian Open and Wimbledon for Federer, French and US Opens for Nadal.

What a year it has been! Image: Getty
What a year it has been! Image: Getty

Throughout the wonderful year, Federer has consistently mentioned where he and Nadal were situated at this time in 2016.

After both men had their 2016 seasons curtailed by injury, Federer travelled to Spain to help Nadal open his tennis academy in Mallorca.

And one year later, the Swiss maestro has taken to social media to congratulate Nadal on the academy's successful first 12 months.

"I know they've worked extremely hard to make this possible and you've got one of the premier around the world," Federer said in a video posted to his Facebook page on Thursday.

"I'm happy I was there in person with Rafa to open the academy.

"I don't think Rafa or myself thought we were going to have the year that we have, and it all started at the Rafael Nadal academy."

And as you can see in the video above, Nadal has since responded, thanking Federer for the kind words.

However the Spaniard threw in a cheeky sledge in the process.

Federer is 4-0 against Nadal in 2017, and has won their last five clashes dating back to 2016.

Nadal is still ahead 23-15 in the overall rivalry, but he isn't impressed by the way Federer has managed to dominate him in recent times.

"If you continue to play this well I won't invite you back to the academy," he said.

Federer also paid tribute to his great rival after beating him in the Shanghai Masters final last week.

"It's nice to share this court with you today and I hope there are more to come in the tournaments we've got left," he said.

"It's been a pleasure playing against you here today."

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With just three tournaments left to play in 2017, Federer and Nadal are in a race to claim the year-end No.1 ranking.

Nadal currently leads Federer by 1960 points, but the Spaniard has withdrawn from Federer's home tournament in Basel next week.

The battle for No.1 will most likely come down to the year-end ATP Finals in London.