It was a pleasure to watch Rafael Nadal on the court for so many years. His heroic battles with Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer will be remembered by every fan for the rest of their lives. However, the Spaniard already knew that he had not been able to reach the highest level for some time, which could have caused him frustration. He has just announced that the Davis Cup in November will be the last tournament of his career.
The whole world reacted to Nadal's retirement. The former prime minister even spoke out
He is still one of the greatest tennis legends, so it is not surprising that immediately after publishing the information about the end of his career, almost everyone felt the desire to thank him for the years of emotions. Not only journalists, but former rivals and the greatest people in Spain decided to speak out. “Very sad, but it didn't make sense anymore,” summed up Jakub Seweryn from Sport.pl.
Journalist Łukasz Jachimiak from Sport.pl and tennis player Thanasi Kokkinakis refrained from saying anything, but posted meaningful gifs. You can tell from them that they are distraught by Nadal's decision.
“What had to happen happened. Rafa Nadal is retiring. The end of a great and legendary era, although the last years were really sad,” summed up Kacper Ciuksza from Sport.pl.
“Rafa, what an amazing career! Your commitment, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It was an honor to witness your journey and to be able to call you a friend. Congratulations! Enjoy your retirement,” Cristiano Ronaldo said in a comment under the post on Instagram.
Nadal's legendary rival, Roger Federer, did the same. “I hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the amazing memories and everything you have achieved. It was an honor to watch you,” we read.
“Thank you for so many good moments you gave us,” wrote former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy Brey.
“You have been my greatest rival, partner and friend for over half of my life! What you have achieved is indescribable, and what you will miss is even greater. Thank you for everything,” said tennis player Fernando Verdasco.
“Expected… The Davis Cup will be Rafael Nadal's last tournament. Thanks for everything, champion!” – commented journalist Rafał Smoliński.
Legendary alpine skier Lindsey Vonn also posted a touching entry. “Thank you for everything Rafa, for all the amazing memories. Forever a legend!” – she announced.
“No, I reject this request to retire,” said tennis player Katie Boulter
“There will never be another Rafael Nadal,” said Tennis TV journalist Bastien Fachan, posting a short summary of the Spaniard's career.
“One of the best athletes of all time will retire during the Davis Cup in November. He is irreplaceable,” said Jose Morgado.
“I expected this to happen someday. I'm happy that I could experience his era and watch him from start to finish. He left a huge legacy, especially on clay. Rafa, big congratulations!” wrote journalist Jan Jasenka.
Many Spanish football clubs have also decided to appreciate Nadal, including: Sporting Gijon, Villarreal, Osasuna, Malaga, Valencia and UD Almeria. “Thank you a hundred times for being an example to all athletes,” it was written.
Rafael Nadal ends his career with an impressive achievement. 14 Roland Garros titles, four US Open wins, two Australian Open and Wimbledon triumphs, as well as as many as 36 victories in ATP 1000 competitions and two Olympic gold medals (Beijing 2008 and Rio de Janeiro 2016)