The entire sport is still shocked by the announcement of Rafael Nadal that he will retire from professional tennis after the Davis Cup, next November, in Malaga. The 38-year-old ended his long and very successful career at the age of 38, after 22 Grand Slam titles, 36 Masters 1000 titles, Olympic gold medals, Davis Cup titles… A tennis icon is retiring, but above all an exceptional athlete. So much so, that not only colleagues, but athletes from other sports, showed their admiration for him.
Perhaps the one from whom a message was most expected was Roger Federer. The Swiss was his rival for two decades and on 40 occasions and, when he retired, Rafa was his partner in doubles at the Laver Cup. The bond is very symbolic and His Majesty left him the following message:
“What a race, Rafa! I always hoped that this day would never come. Thank you for these unforgettable memories and for all your incredible achievements in the sport we love. It has been an absolute honor.”
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Carlos Alcaraz, compatriot, teammate of his in Paris 2024 and rival on three occasions, uploaded two photos with Nadal separated by a decade (one as a fan of his, another as a teammate in the Olympic Games) and wrote: “From the child who watched you on television and dreamed of becoming a tennis player to the one who had the immense gift of playing by your side at Roland Garros representing Spain in the Olympic Games! Thank you very much for being an example at all levels, your legacy is unrepeatable! I have enjoyed you very much and I will miss you very much when you leave after the Davis Cup, Rafa!”
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz, a decade ago. Pure admiration (Via: X).
Another was Jannik Sinner, number 1 in the world, who showed his admiration. “Thank you for everything you have given to the sport. Having the opportunity to spend a few weeks training with you a few years ago is something I will never forget. Seeing you work as an athlete, but also getting to know you as a person off the court was even more special.” And he concluded:
“A true legend of the game who led the way and taught many of us how to be as a player and as a person. We will miss you on the tour!”
Sinner’s Instagram post after Nadal’s announcement (Via: X).
But the messages were not limited to tennis. Until Cristiano Ronaldo, who has little to do with the sport of rackets, but a lot with Madrid, expressed himself. CR7 is an idol of Real Madrid, a club of which Nadal is a fan, and it is known that in all those years they forged a bond. For this reason, the Portuguese wrote: “Rafa! What an amazing career you’ve had. Your dedication, passion, and incredible talent have inspired millions of people around the world. It has been an honor to witness your career and to be able to call you a friend. Congratulations on an amazing career and enjoy your retirement.” The world of sports is as beaten up as it is excited. A total legend who knew how to transcend tennis is retiring.
Person in Title: Rafael Nadal
People Also Ask:
Q: What did Rafael Nadal announce?
A: Nadal announced his retirement from professional tennis, effective immediately. He did so through a heartfelt message shared on social media and a press conference.
Q: Why did Rafael Nadal retire?
A: Nadal cited persistent injuries and the need to prioritize his physical well-being. While he expressed a desire to continue playing, the cumulative effect of his injuries and the need for recovery had become too significant.
Q: What were some reactions to Nadal’s announcement?
A: Reactions ranged from heartfelt tributes from other players and fans to expressions of admiration for his incredible career. Many articles and social media posts acknowledged his status as one of the greatest, if not the greatest tennis player of all time, and celebrated his immense impact on the sport.
Q: What was the tone of Nadal’s announcement?
A: While acknowledging the disappointment of ending his career, Nadal’s announcement was generally positive and focused on gratitude for the relationships and success he’d made in tennis. He was clearly proud of his accomplishments and appreciative of his fans and supporters.
Q: What are Rafael Nadal’s future plans?
A: Nadal’s announcement didn’t include specific details of his future plans. It emphasized his desire to dedicate time to the things he didn’t have as much time to do before. He mentioned spending more time with family, but no firm details were available.