Roger Federer sent an emotional message to Rafael Nadal on social media after the Spaniard confirmed his imminent retirement from tennis. On Thursday, Nadal announced that he would hang up his racket after representing his country at next month’s Davis Cup Finals.
Nadal will be remembered as one of the greatest players of all time, having enjoyed a wildly successful career over the last two decades. Federer, a fellow great, sent a touching message to his former rival on Instagram after the news of his retirement was announced.
“What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come,” wrote Federer. “Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour.”
Many other big-name players also paid tribute to Nadal, with Coco Gauff adding: “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 your next chapter.”
Robert Bautista Agut, who will play alongside Nadal at the Davis Cup finals, wrote: “A thousand thanks to you, Rafa! Thanks for everything. Congratulations on such a brilliant career! Let’s go for the best ending in Malaga.”
Nick Kyrgios also had some kind words for Nadal despite the pair butting heads on a number of occasions. The Aussie posted on X (formerly Twitter): “We had our differences but you were one hell of a warrior. Best wishes and good luck with whatever comes next.”
Nadal will retire as the second-most successful men’s singles player of all time behind only Novak Djokovic. He won the French Open on 14 occasions, winning 112 of his 116 major matches at Roland Garros to set a record which is unlikely to be beaten.
The veteran Spaniard is also a four-time US Open champion and won both the Australian Open and Wimbledon twice. He is a two-time Olympic gold medallist and has helped Spain to five Davis Cup titles, most recently in 2019.
A string of injuries have disrupted Nadal’s career in recent years and he has not played a competitive match since the Olympics in the summer. He will be hoping to bow out in style by winning the Davis Cup with Spain at his final tournament next month.
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