Rafael Nadal’s farewell at the Davis Cup in Malaga is shaping up to be a truly historic event for tennis lovers. The excitement surrounding Rafa’s last appearance as a professional player is enormous, with fans and fellow athletes alike eager to witness the final chapter of his legendary career. According to Miguel Díaz, president of the Spanish Tennis Federation, the demand is so high that they could fill five football stadiums if they had the capacity.
Speaking to Relevo, Feliciano Lopez reflected on the unparalleled legacy Rafa leaves behind. For Feli, our champ is without question the greatest Spanish athlete in history—not just because of his on-court accomplishments but also for the example he has set as a person and teammate.
“My last intention is to diminish any other Spanish athlete—we’ve had so many, and many great ones at that. I really don’t think this debate should exist. And it’s not because he’s Rafa, not because he’s a tennis player, or because he’s my friend. I say it with complete sincerity. Rafa’s record simply doesn’t compare with any other athlete’s, and believe me, we’ve had some incredible ones, but that’s just how it is,” said Feli.
“Obviously, there’s the personal aspect and the legacy he leaves as a human being and a teammate. We could talk for hours about the legacy he has created, which is on par with what he has achieved on the court. We’re talking about things and levels that are different from anything else seen in Spain. He has 22 Grand Slam titles, 14 Roland Garros victories; it’s an impossible record, and it’s unlikely that any individual athlete will ever be able to win a tournament as prestigious as Roland Garros 14 times.
“He was world number one, he won Olympic medals. There has not been an athlete in Spain comparable to Rafa in sporting terms.
“Sometimes the debate is fueled in a journalistic way, and I understand that it is nice to ask who is the best. But this debate dilutes reality a little: if we talk about sporting performances, honestly and without offending anyone, I do not think that anyone can match him. And then there is what has transcended, what has moved. He has provoked emotions and feelings in so many people. Things have happened with Rafa in this country that have not happened with any other athlete and that also contributes to it.“
Source: relevo.com
I agree 101% w/ Feli Lopez youve had an amazing record and nobody is comparable to you. You will be missed and will be remembered for the legacy you’ve created.
I presumed Rafael Junior will be another big names in the sport to come.
Long live Rafa!!! Vamos!
Juanito
He’s so kind, a fantastic player and so passionate about the game. I loved playing in tournaments too.
I am so looking forward to seeing the magnificent celebration of Rafa at the Davis cup finals. Rafa is one of a kind and his achievements at Roland Garros will never be repeated in history, and deserves the very best celebration!
We will miss Rafa play, watching him play can’t compare to any tennis player in the world we really enjoyed his passion, tenacity his mental strength. I wish the best in the world for him and his family.
Wow! Beautifully stated and so true as to what Feli Lopez said.
An end of an era unfortunately, and yes fans, tennis is not the same without Rafa.
I watched a few matches recently and I was yawning and bored. Maybe some new person will come along and surprise us.
Imagine the popularity and love for Rafa where Feli says he could easily fill 5 stadiums! I bet the number could be increased.
,Regardless,I and many more miss Rafa and are thankful that we were able to see and enjoy his tennis 🎾
Generous and kind tribute from Feli Lopez. We miss seeing you and Rafa on tour. Is it the times in which we live? It is becoming more difficult to generate positive interest amongst
the anxiety and controversy. Tennis is no exception. Loyal Rafa fans would follow his matches regardless of the hour. No one I would set the alarm for now!
So very true and beautiful
I love you Feli Lopez and thank you for all of your tributes and love for Rafa as I too have loved him for all of his career. I am not watching tennis now..I don’t know how to express what it’s like to lose a favorite athlete and amazing person.. Thank you Feliciano.. Hope you will always be the❤️ of tennis for me..
Yes all true! There will never be another champion like Rafa Nadal. Tennis is never going to be the same for me! I’m so sad about not seeing Rafa play that words cannot express it!
I’m looking forward to watching Rafa at the Davis Cup in Malaga I started watching tennis because of watching Rafa play several years ago it truly isn’t the same with him not competing. The Best of Luck to him for his future with his lovely family !!! I’ll miss you Rafa, in my eyes you are the GOAT .