Rafael Nadal selected to offer his farewell to tennis by taking part in for his nation and, regardless of Spain being eradicated within the quarterfinals of the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, the world was there (in particular person or in spirit) for the Spanish champion.
Among the many many messages and honors obtained by the Spaniard, stands out the certainly one of legend Rod Laver, thought of by many to be one of many strongest tennis gamers of all time. The Australian stated he was proud to have seen Rafa compete and thanked him for having left him so many moments.
“Rafa, watching you compete has been a privilege. Your legacy will stay as one of many best who ever had the pleasure of taking part in. Thanks for numerous unforgettable moments and for setting a regular of excellence that can encourage generations to come back. I want you happiness and success on this subsequent chapter,” he wrote on X.
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The 22-time Grand Slam champion gave farewell after greater than 20 years of success. The Spaniard’s remaining match didn’t go as he needed, as he was defeated in two units by Dutchman Botic Van de Zandschulp. Though Carlos Alcaraz briefly tied the sport, the Dutch doubles left no likelihood for Spain, who needed to say goodbye to the Davis Cup early.
“I’m privileged to have obtained the love of the entire world however particularly of the Spanish. I’ve to congratulate the Dutch guys and say goodbye to my teammates. It did not go as I hoped, however I gave every little thing I had. That is my final day as an expert tennis participant. Now it is as much as you guys to proceed the work. It is by no means straightforward to cease, I nonetheless love tennis to demise however I am unable to be aggressive anymore. My physique would not permit me to do it anymore,” defined Rafa on the finish of the match.
