Legendary Spanish icon Rafael Nadal has announced the upcoming Davis Cup Finals in Malaga will be his last tournament as a professional player.
The 38-year-old has achieved everything in the sport, including 22 Grand Slam titles, an Olympic gold medal, world No.1 ranking, a Davis Cup crown and most consecutive weeks in the top-10 (912).
After multiple injuries and setbacks over the past two years, Nadal felt the time was right to hang up his racquet and begin a new chapter.
In an emotional video released on social media, Nadal shared the news to the world.
"Hello everyone. I'm here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis," he said.
"The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don't think I have been able to play without limitations.
"It is obviously a difficult decision, one that has taken me some time to make.
"But, in this life, everything has a beginning and an end.
"And I think it's the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have ever imagined.”
"I feel super lucky for all the things I have been able to experience.
"I want to thank the entire tennis industry, all the people involved in this sport, my long-time colleagues, especially my great rivals. I have spent many hours with them and have lived many moments that I will remember for the rest of my life."
Long-time rival and good friend Roger Federer led the tributes, paying his respects to one of the best players in history.
“What a career, Rafa! I hope this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour!” Federer wrote on his socials.
Other messages from star athletes demonstrated the legacy Nadal will leave behind:
“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport. You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis and I think that’s probably greatest achievement anyone can wish for. Your tenacity, dedication, fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades. Your legacy will live forever. Only you know what you had to endure to become icon of tennis and sport in general.“ - Novak Djokovic
"Well, it's tough news for all the tennis world. I was very lucky to get to know him, and he is an unbelievable person. We all saw how good he has been as a player, and the lessons he taught us, the young players, how to behave on the court, how to handle situations on the court, tough situations. And also to stay humble." - Jannik Sinner
“Rafa, what an incredible career you have had! Your dedication, passion, and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honour to witness your journey and be able to call you a friend. Congratulations on an amazing career! Enjoy your retirement!” - Cristiano Ronaldo
“You are amazing! It’s been so incredible to witness your greatness and work ethic and be able to learn from it. Wishing you all the best in the next chapter.” - Coco Gauff
Dubbed as ‘the king of clay,’ the Spaniard won a record 14 French Open titles and accumulated a staggering 90.8 win percentage throughout his career on clay.
Yet arguably the most memorable moment was on grass against Federer in the 2008 Wimbledon final - officially setting himself onto the scene.
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