The world of tennis, footballers (such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Vinicius Jr and Guillermo Ochoa) and even football teams surrendered to Rafa Nadal after this Thursday announced his retirement after the Final of the Davis Cupwhich will be disputed in Málaga of the November 19 to 24.
Cristiano Ronaldo He was one of the first athletes to react to the retirement of the historic tennis player and he did so with a emotional message where the friendship that exists between the two stood out.
“Rafa! What an incredible career you have had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions of people around the world. It has been an honor to witness your journey and be able to call you a friend.”
Roger Federer, winner of twenty Grand Slams, and one of his great rivals, praised Rafael Nadal’s career and assured that it has been “an absolute honor” to have competed against him.
“What a race, Rafa. I have always wished that this day would not come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and for all your achievements in the sport we love. “It’s been an absolute honor.”
He Real Madrid He also reacted to the Spanish announcement. “Real Madrid CF, its president and its Board of Directors want to show their admiration and affection for one of the greatest legends of Spanish and world sport of all time,” he published in a statement.
“For us and for all of Real Madrid, it is and will always be a source of pride that a legend like Rafa Nadal represents our club as an honorary member of Real Madrid.”
Tennis world thanks Rafa Nadal
The current number two in world tennis, the Spanish Carlos Alcaraz, he confessed “a ‘shock'” following the announcement of the imminent withdrawal of Rafael Nadal, whom he defined as “the best Spanish athlete.”
“It was a big surprise, I had no idea about anything. (…) Rafa is my idol, It is one of the main reasons why I have wanted to be a tennis professional,” Alcaraz said at a press conference.
The Australian Nick Kyrgios He also reacted to the announcement and acknowledged that despite having had his “differences” Nadal has been an “incredible warrior.”
“We had our differences, but you were an incredible warrior. I wish you good luck with whatever comes next. Rafa, don’t retire, I want to play with you the last time,” the player highlighted on his ‘X’ account.
The Italian Matteo Berretini defined him as a ‘legend’ and the Argentine Francisco Cerúndolo He also wanted to thank her for everything she has done for the sport, just like the Tunisian Our Jabeur.
“Thank you for inspiring me and all of us. You will be missed,” he remarked.
