Federer, Cristiano Ronaldo and Fernando González: the reactions to Rafael Nadal’s retirement – La Tercera

“I think this is the right time to end a long and much more successful career than I could have ever imagined.” With these words, in an emotional video that mixing face and inevitable times, Rafael Nadal announced his retirement from tennis at 38 years old, with an impressive record of 92 titles, with 22 in Grand Slam.

One of the first things the Spaniard did in the video was to thank everyone, his players and rivals: “To all who make up this sport and to those who have been my teammates for so many years, especially my great competitors. “I have spent many hours with them and I have lived moments that I will remember for the rest of my life. ”

One of his most iconic rivals was the Swiss Roger Federer, who was among the first to address Rafa’s retirement, with whom he experienced great battles: “What a race, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and your amazing achievements in the sport we love. “It was an absolute honor.”

Photo: Sports photo/file

At the local level, which also had emotional words Fernando Gonzalezanother of his opponents in important events, such as the Olympic gold final in Beijing 2008: “The day came that we didn’t want, but everyone knows their moment. That mentality and level of play will be lost. Thank you for elevating tennis and the entire legacy.”wrote Feña on his social networks.

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But it wasn’t just tennis stars who responded. Cristiano Ronaldo gave him a beautiful message: “Rafa, what an amazing career you’ve had! Your enthusiasm, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honor to see your journey and to be able to call you a friend. Congratulations on an amazing career! Happy retirement!”

The ATP’s top players also took a moment to reflect on Nadal. The first to do so was the world number 1, the Italian Jannik Sinner: “Thank you Rafa for everything you have contributed to the sport. Something I will never forget is having the opportunity to spend a few weeks training with you a few years ago. It was even more special to see you work as an athlete, but also to know you as a person off the court. ”

Finally, there was one of the expected Carlos Alcaraz, who is considered the heir to Rafa’s legacy in Spain. His message resonated: “From the child who watched you on TV and dreamed of becoming a tennis player to the man who had the great gift of playing with you at Roland Garros representing Spain in the Games Olympian! Thank you for being an example at every level, your legacy is unrepeatable!”.