Jack Sock, Frances Tiafoe embrace “villain” status ahead of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal clash at Laver Cup

WATCH: Roger Federer speaks to press before the Laver Cup

LONDON—No story about legends and champions would be complete without a few villains. During Roger Federer’s farewell doubles bash at the Laver Cup on Friday night, Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe were more than happy to play that role.

Ever since Federer announced his retirement last week and confirmed that the team competition in London would be his last professional tennis tournament, all eyes have been on the star-studded field that has descended on The O2 in London.

When Federer confirmed his intention of playing one last doubles match alongside Rafael Nadal in a reprisal of their instantly iconic rivalry and partnership, the next question was who would they face.

For Team World, the obvious choice was Laver Cup veteran Sock, who has lifted four Grand Slam trophies in men’s doubles and mixed.

“Obviously tomorrow night is going to be a beyond-iconic evening, doubles match,” Sock said on Thursday. “I'm just stoked to be a part of it with my guy Foe, you know, next to me."

“We will go out and enjoy the moment, but not going to hold anything back,” he added grinning. “Sorry, Roger. Don't want to spoil the night.”

It helps that the American has plenty of experience playing the foil to fan-favorite Federer—especially at Laver Cup, where they have faced off five times since the competition's debut in 2017. Sock owns a 3-2 lead in their doubles head-to-head at this event.

“I have been fortunate enough to play some combinations of these legends of our sport a few different times. I'll definitely draw off that,” Sock said. “Obviously, the emotions and everything will be a little different, mainly on their side and to be a part of it on our side.”

According to Team World captain John McEnroe, Sock was his go-to guy for doubles—but he had to make a tough executive decision regarding who would partner the former doubles world No. 2.

“We had to flip some coins there,” he revealed. “No one was running away from that one, believe me. I don't think it gets a whole lot more exciting than that, to be part of history.”

Eventually Tiafoe got the nod, with the 24-year-old coming in full of momentum after his breakthrough semifinal run at the US Open that included a four-set upset over Nadal.

“I'm just excited to play two up-and-comers tomorrow. Should be good,” Tiafoe joked.

“I just think me and Jack are just looking for a special night, come out there, have fun,” he added. “I mean, the crowd is obviously going to be for them. You understand that kind of moment, and just go out there and do your part and just try to get a win.”

Sock will be doing double duty on Friday, first taking the court in singles against Casper Ruud in the day session before returning to join Tiafoe in doubles during the evening.