News of Rafael Nadal’s retirement has prompted an outpouring of affection across the sporting world and beyond
Roger Federer, pictured with Rafael Nadal after their epic 2008 Wimbledon final, described competing with Nadal as ‘an absolute honour’.Roger Federer, pictured with Rafael Nadal after their epic 2008 Wimbledon final, described competing with Nadal as ‘an absolute honour’.
“What a career Rafa!” Federer wrote on Nadal’s Instagram in response to the 38-year-old’s video outlining his retirement plans, just over two years after Federer’s own retirement. “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.”
The former world No 1 Andy Roddick, one of the first to witness Nadal’s talent first-hand when he was beaten by the then 18-year-old in the 2004 Davis Cup final, said: “I knew tennis earth was in a lot of trouble.”81 – consecutive matches won on clay from April 2005 to May 2007912 – consecutive weeks spent in the top 10 between April 2005 and March 2023 more than any other manNick Kyrgios, who shared an occasionally tumultuous relationship with Nadal on the court, wrote on X: “Damn.
The current world No 1, Jannik Sinner, emphasised his affection for Nadal the person. “I was very lucky to get to know him… and he’s an unbelievable person,” he said in Shanghai. “Of course, the player, we all saw how good he has been and the lessons he taught us young players, how to behave on the court, how to handle situations on the court, tough situations. And also to stay humble the same time, not changing with the success, choosing the right people around him, having a great family.
The president of the Balearic Islands, Marga Prohens, promised a fitting tribute and other politicians offered warm words. Carlos Moya said it had been an honour to share Nadal’s journey, as coach and friend, while Roland-Garros, where he won a record 14 times, perhaps summed things up best: “King – Thank you for everything Rafa”, it said on X.
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