Federer heads into the sunset with a loss but love eternal at the Laver Cup

Roger Federer (left) and Rafael Nadal broke down in tears after their defeat in the Laver Cup. It was Federer's last competitive match of an illustrious 24-year career. AP - Kin Cheung

And with the forehand winner down the tram lines, the wonder was over. Roger Federer moved into retirement with a defeat in the doubles in the fourth match of the 2022 Laver Cup.

At his side for the swan song was Rafael Nadal, the erstwhile nemesis turned compadre who helped him transport tennis into the sublime.