Roger Federer reacted to Nadal’s retirement with the following words: “What a career, Rafa! I always hoped that this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in this game that we love so much. It was an absolute honor.”
Novak Djokovic, record Grand Slam winner, also paid tribute to his long-time opponent in an emotional post.
“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and for what you have done for our sport. You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis and I think that is probably the greatest success one could wish for,” the Serb wrote.
“Your tenacity, your dedication and your fighting spirit will be taught for decades to come. Thank you for pushing me to the limits so often in our rivalry, which shaped me most as a player. Your passion was to represent Spain always remarkable. I wish you the best possible farewell in Malaga with the Spanish Davis Cup team. I will be there in person to pay respect to your outstanding career,” promised Djokovic.
Nadal’s last Grand Slam title – the five best shots
Nadal’s compatriot Carlos Alcaraz said in Shanghai: “I’m in shock; Rafa is my idol, one of the reasons why I wanted to become a professional tennis player. Thank you for everything.”
The current number one in the tennis world, Jannik Sinner, also said on “X”: “I will never forget that a few years ago I had the opportunity to train with you for a few weeks.”
It was “something very special to not only watch you as an athlete, but also to get to know you as a person off the field. You are a true legend of sport who showed us the way and taught so many of us how to be Players and people should be.”
Alcaraz: “I wanted to become a tennis professional because of Nadal”
The professional players’ association ATP commented: “The tennis court will never be the same again.”
Kyrgios, Neuer and Ronaldo react
Australia’s tennis star Nick Kyrgios sent an appeal to Nadal to reconsider his decision: “Rafa, don’t resign, I want to play against you one last time!” A little later, the 2022 Wimbledon finalist added: “He was a motivation – I think an inspiration. Shit, it’s true: people get the best out of you. You were one of those people.”
Numerous stars from other sports also registered. Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer commented under the video: “Incredible career! All the best.” Andres Iniesta, a fellow countryman, also paid homage to the Spaniard: “Talking about Nadal is a big thing, not only as an athlete, but also as a person, because of everything he has taught us. He is one of the greatest for our country.”
Toni Kroos, who recently retired as an athlete, wrote on Instagram: “It will never be the same without you and Roger. Thank you for always being a role model on and off the pitch.” And Cristiano Ronaldo also got in touch: “Your commitment, your passion and your incredible talent have inspired millions of people around the world. It was an honor to follow your path and to consider you a friend.”
Rafael Nadal ends his Davis Cup career
Kylian Mbappé, a player at Nadal’s favorite club Real Madrid, also reacted: “Congratulations on your career Rafa, a role model as a player and as a person. Enjoy your retirement. You will always be a legend.”
Former ski star Lindsey Vonn wrote: “Muchas gracias Rafa!! It was a privilege to watch you play for so many years. You will always be a legend.” Former Spanish cycling ace Alberto Contador also spoke up: “Today Rafa Nadal announced his retirement, endless thanks for what you have allowed us to enjoy for so many years with your effort and sacrifice.”
Nadal had previously announced in a moving video that he would end his career in November – with a home game. The Davis Cup finals in November in Malaga will be the 22-time Grand Slam winner’s last tournament. Recently, the 38-year-old had repeatedly struggled with serious injuries.
Tennis icon Nadal – a century-long career in numbers
