Rewind: The Historic Federer vs. Nadal Showdown at the 2006 Nitto ATP Finals
Catch a glimpse of the thrilling match highlights!
Date: November 13, 2025
Photo Credit: Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images
In 2006, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer faced off six times, highlighting their intense rivalry.
By ATP Staff
The excitement was palpable as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal intensified their rivalry in 2006, having previously faced each other once in 2004 and twice in 2005. That year saw six thrilling encounters, with Nadal initially claiming victory in the first four matches—including finals at Dubai, Monte-Carlo, Rome, and Roland Garros. However, Federer fought back, winning the Wimbledon final and the semi-finals at what was then known as the Tennis Masters Cup in the Nitto ATP Finals.
With a decisive 6-4, 7-5 triumph in Shanghai, Federer solidified his status with his third of six total titles at this prestigious event.
“I always look forward to matches like these, to overcome the best challengers,” Federer remarked after his semi-final win.
Given that Nadal caused four of Federer’s five losses in 2006, the Shanghai victory was particularly momentous for the Swiss maestro, who concluded the year with an impressive 92-5 record, as per the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index. Andy Murray was the only other player to defeat Federer that season. Following that loss, Federer embarked on an incredible 29-match winning streak.
In their previous seven encounters, the loser had managed to claim at least one set. Yet at the Shanghai season finale, Federer’s commanding performance marked a new chapter in their rivalry, capping one of the greatest seasons in ATP Tour history.
A standout moment from the match occurred during its climactic point when Federer executed a stunning forehand winner off a challenging Nadal drop shot, falling to his knees in celebration, a testament to the significance of the moment.
“It felt incredible, a sensation I usually reserve for finals,” Federer expressed. “It’s rare to finish matches this way, so it was a special moment.”
Federer continued his victorious path, clinching the title with a convincing 6-0, 6-3, 6-4 win against James Blake in the final.
