Rafael Nadal said on Thursday he was putting an end to his career, a decision effective after the Davis Cup final after a professional journey that made him one of the greatest players in tennis.
“It has been some difficult years, these last two especially,” the 38-year-old, who won a record 14 French Open titles, said in a video.
“I am very excited that my last tournament will be the Davis Cup representing my country. It’s closing the circle because one of my first joys was the final in Sevilla in 2004.”
Rafa thanked his family and his team for his stellar career, with a special word for his uncle Toni, who was his coach for most of his time on court.
“I believe that thanks to him, I have also been able to overcome many situations that have been difficult in my sporting career,” he said.
To his fans, Rafa said: “I can’t thank you enough for what you have made me feel. Everything I have experienced has been a dream come true.”
“I leave with the absolute peace of mind having given my best,” he added.
Thank you, Rafa, for everything you have given to the world of tennis and to all of us who have been lucky enough to witness your incredible journey! You will forever be a champion in every sense of the word!
Source: Reuters
Such and anti climax………There should have been so much more and the damn injuries ruined it all.
And having touched such greatness despite so many injury setbacks speaks volumes for Rafa.
Was still hoping against hope for a last miracle…….reaching the 100 titles mark and winning the world tour finals……..alas it was not to be.
But that take nothing away from a resume of epic proportions.
Still hoping he changes his decision and plays some more at the level next year…wishful thinking.
Practically, Rafa knows his body best. It was an amazing journey champ.
…..wonder whats left in tennis now. There was just hope this year and now even thats gone. No1 else has that……to make me watch a match.
Rafa what a champion, example you have been. Never broke a racquet,always clapping who you have beaten as they walk off court. Given so much happiness to all who love tennis. Time to enjoy your wonderful family now. Hope we hear from you time to time. Bev Shepstone
All I can say is thanks for the memories… Thank you for entertaining me and giving me gray hair😂 Although your absence has prepared me for the inevitable my heart is breaking and I can’t stop sobbing! I have been a ardent passionate fanatic fan since 2005… It’s hard to put in words how much I adore you and like many of your fans I will not be watching tennis after your Retirement! We have all come full circle with Rafa… From a Teenager a husband and now to a father… My cup runneth over with joy and pride forRafa ! I will watch intensely until you are inducted to the International Tennis Hall of Fame! Thank you so much, Rafa for all the memories… I wish you and your beautiful family everything good in life! Vamos and Adios dear Rafa🩷🩷🩷
Rafa, you and your memorable battles on the tennis court will be etched in my heart forever.
Even though I knew Rafa’s retirement was coming, I feel nothing but sadness today. For me, no one will ever light up the court with the fight, passion and determination the way Rafa has done for so many years.
His tennis achievements are amazing, but Rafa as a person transcends the numbers. The wonderful tributes from fans and players is testament to how much Rafa is admired and respected.
Dear Rafa, I’ll miss you, but I’ll continue to follow your journey through life and I wish you and your family all the very best for the future. ❤️
Lorna – I feel exactly the same way. I knew the retirement news was coming, I even thought it would be the Davis Cup, but I’ve felt such sadness since he made the announcement. It made me realize just how much I enjoyed watching Rafa play tennis (getting up at ridiculous hours to watch him at AO and much to my family’s astonishment even staying indoors on a beautiful day as I had to watch him in Wimbledon final)!! All the tributes coming in are so well deserved and it just illustrates how much he is not only loved but respected by everyone (both within the tennis world and beyond). There are still players that are fun to watch (Sinner, Alcaraz, Medevev) but for me it was never quite be the same or as much fun without Rafa competing! I’m looking forward to watching one more time at the Davis Cup finals!!!!