Who is Barcelona star Ivan Rakitic’s favourite tennis player? Given that Rafael Nadal is a Spaniard, it should be him, right? Wrong.

Rakitic claims to be a big-time fan of Nadal’s arch-rival Roger Federer of Switzerland. The Croatian footballer, who also happens to be half Swiss, said that he would like to invite Federer to a game at Camp Nou.

“That’s an easy question, Roger Federer, is by far my favorite athlete,” Rakitic said.

He added: “What he does not only in tennis but in general sports is unique. It’s a dream of mine to invite him to come here to Barcelona.

“I hope that he will think about the offer. I think it’s a huge honour for every Swiss person. The way that Roger represents the country is incredible.”

Being a Croat, Rakitic must be liking Marin Cilic too, no?

So, who would he rather choose: Federer or Cilic? “This is a difficult question. Cilic is my good friend,” he said.