After an incredible career, Rafael Nadal has announced he will retire from tennis after next month’s Davis Cup.
The 38-year-old won 22 Grand Slams in his career and is second on the all-time list behind Novak Djokovic.
Here’s how some of the world’s biggest stars reacted to the news.
📰 Table Of Contents
Roger Federer, 20 times Grand Slam winner
“What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour!”
Mil gracias a todos
Many thanks to all
Merci beaucoup à tous
Grazie mille à tutti
谢谢大家
شكرا لكم جميعا
תודה לכולכם
Obrigado a todos
Vielen Dank euch allen
Tack alla
Хвала свима
Gràcies a tots pic.twitter.com/7yPRs7QrOi— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) October 10, 2024
Novak Djokovic, 24-time grand slam champion
“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport. You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis and I think that’s probably the greatest achievement anyone can wish for.
“Your tenacity, dedication, fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades. Your legacy will live forever. Only you know what you had to endure to become an icon of tennis and sport in general.
“Thank you for pushing me to the very limit so many times in our rivalry that has impacted me the most as a player. Your passion for representing Spain has always been remarkable. I wish you the best possible farewell in Malaga with Davis Cup team of Spain. I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.”
Jannik Sinner, current World number one
“It’s tough news for, I think, all the tennis world, and not only the tennis world. What I can say, I was very lucky to get to know him and he’s an unbelievable person.
“We all saw how good he has been as a player, the lessons he taught us, the young players, how to behave on the court, how to handle situations on the court, tough situations. He gave to all of us a lot of emotions when we saw him playing.
“And also to stay humble in the same time, not changing with the success, choosing the right people around him, having a great family.
“Everything has a beginning, and it has a start, and also an ending.”
Nick Kyrgios, former Wimbledon runner-up
“Rafa don’t retire I wanna play you one last time.
“We had our differences but you were one hell of a warrior. Best wishes and good luck with whatever comes next.”
Coco Gauff, former US Open champion
“You are amazing! It’s been so incredible to witness your greatness and work ethic and be able to learn from it. Wishing you all the best in the next chapter.”
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal captain and football legend
“Rafa, what an incredible race you’ve had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honour to witness your journey and to be able to call you a friend. Congrats on an amazing career! Enjoy your retirement!”
