The Match in Africa, a charity match between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, will also see comedian Trevor Noah and billionaire Bill Gates take part in a celebrity doubles match.
CAPE TOWN – The stage was set for the much-anticipated charity match between tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal on Friday.
Somerset Road in Greenpoint quickly became a hive of activity ahead of Friday night’s much-anticipated event.
The event featured Federer and Nadal who are considered two of the greatest players in the history of the game.
The tennis stars made an appearance at the Grand Parade in the Cape Town CBD earlier on Friday.
Kenwyn resident Faizel Taliep has brought his family along to watch Nadal and Federer in all their glory.
“What can I say? The two greatest tennis players of all time. I can’t wait to watch. My son has watched them already, but I can’t wait because I am a super Nadal fan.”
The Match in Africa will also see comedian Trevor Noah and billionaire Bill Gates take part in a celebrity doubles.
The Match in Africa – Roger Federer vs Rafael Nadal
The sixth edition of the Match for Africa is also the very first edition of the Match in Africa as Federer brings Nadal with him to the Cape Town Stadium for a one-night only exhibition match.
48,000 tickets have been sold for the event which sees the Cape Town Stadium attempt to break the world record for the most spectators to watch a tennis match.
As a curtain raiser fans will be treated to a celebrity- pro doubles match with Bill Gates and Trevor Noah partnering Federer and Nadal respectively.
“This Match in Africa is a dream come true,” said Federer when the event was first announced. “I will play in my mother’s home country against my toughest rival and friend Rafa Nadal. We share not only the love for tennis but also for the good cause of giving children a better start in education and in life. I feel privileged to have other leading philanthropists on board to entertain millions of people in the stadium and on TV. It will be a once-in-a lifetime moment for my family and I.”
“Roger and I have shared so many magical moments on and off the court. Travelling with him to Cape Town and playing for the benefit of children is something I am very excited about. It will be my first time in the region with Roger as a tour guide – that will be fun.”
Roger Federer wins the Match in Africa 6-4 3-6 6-3.
