Tiafoe and Sock relishing challenge of facing Federer (and Nadal) on his farewell

The American pair have promised to give it everything to earn a point for Team World

Action Plus / Panoramic

September 22, 2022

It was a gig that the entire team were hoping to get in on but the honour of facing Roger Federer in his final professional match went to Americans Frances Tiafoe and Jack Sock.

And the pair can’t wait to take on Federer – who retires after this weekend’s competition – and Rafael Nadal as they try to give Team World the opportunity to claim a first win in the six-year history of the competition.

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“I’m just excited to play two up-and-comers tomorrow,” Tiafoe said, prompting laughter from the reporters assembled for the press conference at the Laver Cup in London. “Should be good.”

Tiafoe, fresh from his run to the a first Grand Slam semi-final at the US Open, and Sock, who has been rejuvenated this year after a long spell in the wilderness, will present a significant challenge to the crack pairing of Federer and Nadal, long-term rivals on the court, long-term friends off it.

“No, it’s going to be iconic to be part of that,” Tiafoe continued. “Both guys are absolute legends, and obviously Roger’s last dance. We are definitely just out there trying to get a win.

“This is a special night. I just think me and Jack are just looking for a special night, come out there, have fun. The crowd is obviously going to be for them. You understand that kind of moment, and just go out there and do your part and just try to get a win. It’s going to be a special night tomorrow. I’m just happy I get the opportunity to do it with Jack.”

Sock, a three-time Grand Slam champion in doubles, twice at Wimbledon and once at the US Open, said he was looking forward to being part of Federer’s last match, but wants to win.

“Obviously tomorrow night is going to be a beyond-iconic evening, doubles match,” he said. “I’m just stoked to be a part of it with my guy Foe, you know, next to me.

“We will go out and enjoy the moment, but not going to hold anything back. Sorry, Roger. Don’t want to spoil the night.”