The Spaniard's career has been heavily disrupted by injury problems in recent years and his great rival thinks that he may have a decision to make about his future in the sport following his decision to pull out of the Laver Cup.

Federer said: "I really hoped he would somehow get a match in the end, but he just said he'd rather not do it, and that he doesn't feel ready.

"But he seems good. I think he just has to decide what to do next and I think that's what he's going through at the moment. He's done everything for the sport.

"It would be phenomenal if he could go on for another season, but only Rafa himself can answer that."

The 20-time major winner added on Nadal: "In the end, it might be helpful to make a decision at some point.

"And once it's over, you can just relax."

However, Federer thinks that his other former foe Novak Djokovic will be in contention for next year's Australian Open – despite enduring his first season without a major for seven years in 2024.

The Swiss great said: "Novak, winning the Olympics and playing somewhat let's say a full season – he didn't bow out because of injuries, he chose to play less which is normal when you get a bit older.

"I feel like he has chances moving forward. I look forward to Australia which is the next Slam. I think (Novak is) definitely going to be one of the favourites along with (Jannik) Sinner and (Carlos) Alcaraz.

"I think the Australian Open story will be a very cool one to follow."