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It’s one of the greatest rivalries in tennis history, Roger Federer & Rafael Nadal, and tennis fans can settle in and enjoy a week-long celebration of the duo and relive some of their greatest matches when Fox Sports serves up a special Roger & Rafa Pop Up channel, writes Adam Peacock

THE RIVALRY OF RESPECT

As much as they love beating each other, the great rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal is one without hate, or venom. Over 15 years, they have brought out the best in each other on and off the court, and are why tennis has turned into a billion dollar industry with the explosion of TV rights and sponsorship, especially at Grand Slams.

BEGINNINGS

Nadal was the first man to show Federer was mortal. Back in the mid-2000s, as Federer built a case to be the greatest ever – winning, and winning with style – along came this relentless Spaniard with long hair, longer shorts and a power-based game. Immediately, their matches stood out, and have done ever since.

STYLE’S MATCH

Watching Federer in his pomp is like a trip to an art gallery, for Nadal it’s an assault on the senses. And as a match-up, it’s perfect. Both physically and mentally elite, the differences lie in style and strengths. Federer loves to control opponents with tempo and every shot imaginable. Nadal puts unthinkable spin on the ball, particularly the crosscourt forehand, which has been able to expose Federer’s one-handed backhand.

DIFFERENT LEGENDS

Federer is your Bond-type character, strolling around unflustered with his tuxedo and Rolex watch, sipping champagne. Nadal has a little more edge, and is never frightened to get the rig out to boost sales, though not for products in the bargain bin. He plays in a Richard Mille watch worth about $1 million.

ROGER FEDERER & RAFAEL NADAL POP UP, FOX SPORTS MORE (CHANNEL 507)