Rafa Nadal announced his retirement from professional tennis this Thursday. The Balearic player surprised everyone this morning with a video on his social networks in which he says his last goodbyes. This painful news that all fans of the world of racquets and its triumphs wanted to avoid.
Since that moment, countless great athletes have broken the silence and put aside their grief to dedicate a few words to the great Spanish champion. The winner of 22 Grand Slam titles and 92 trophies during his career, in addition to two Olympic gold medals, has received the support of dozens of great legends.
From Roger Federer until Cristiano Ronaldo passing through Tony Kroos either Therese Perales. Footballers, canoeists, tennis players, swimmers and countless personalities said their final professional farewells to one of the best of all time, whatever the discipline.
VIDEO | The best moments of the career of Rafa Nadal, the most successful Spanish tennis player in history
In addition, great personalities from politics, social life and sports also broke their silence and sent a message of farewell and gratitude to Rafa for his brilliant professional career and for all the moments he gave to Spain and the world. In the manner of the moving farewells he said to Madrid Magic Boxsocial networks became tearful over the hard news of Rafa’s farewell.
Although the withdrawal of the Balearic champion was a matter of time, this announcement surprised more than one, because it was not expected before his last confirmed participation, which will take place in the dispute of the final of the Davis Cup in Malaga. These are some of the messages Nadal received.
Roger Federer
“What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and for all your incredible achievements in the sport we love. It has been an absolute honor.”
Carlos Moya
“We knew one day this would happen. We are proud to have been a part of your journey, ultimately as a coach, but always as a friend. Thank you for everything.”
Thibaut Courtois
“You were an example as an athlete and an eternal reference.”
Fernando Verdasco
“You have been my greatest rival, my partner and my friend for more than half of my life. What you have accomplished is indescribable and what you will miss is even more so. Thank you for everything Rafa Nadal.”
Jose Manuel Calderon
“Many thanks to you for being an example. It was a pleasure to watch you play all these years and to share some moments with you. A legend in every sense of the word.”
Alexandre Valverde
“Here is a legend. Thank you for everything Rafael Nadal. I wish you the best in the Davis Cup and in your next stage after leaving the competition.”
Francisco Cubelos
“No one was prepared for this moment. Thank you for all these years and for being a reference for so many athletes like me. Since I was a child, addicted to your games, to your comebacks and fascinated by your attitude. Don Rafael Nada Parera. Always in our hearts.
the real Madrid
“In light of Rafa Nadal’s announcement of his retirement from tennis as a professional player following the Davis Cup which he will play with Spain in November 2024, Real Madrid CF, its President and Board of Directors wish to show him their admiration and affection of the greatest legends of Spanish sport and world sport of all time.
“For us and for all of Real Madrid, it is and will always be a source of pride that a myth like Rafa Nadal represents our club as an honorary member of Real Madrid. The president of Real Madrid, Florentino Pérez, declares that “Rafa Nadal is also a source of pride for our country and is an example of the essential values of sport, with which he has forged his entire extraordinary career.
“At Real Madrid, we also want to show our gratitude for your Real Madrid fandom and for spreading the values of our club to the four corners of the world. We wish Rafa Nadal and his entire family the best in this new stage of their lives.
Cristiano Ronaldo
“Rafa, what an incredible career you have had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions of people around the world. It has been an honor to witness your journey and be able to call you a friend. Congratulations on an incredible career! Enjoy your retirement!
Tony Kroos
“What an example as a player and, above all, as a person. See you soon Rafa.”
Therese Perales
“Thank you Rafael Nadal for everything you have made us experience and vibrate during all these years. You are and will always be a great reference. Humble, courageous, constant, strong, close and always part of our lives. This is how we have felt you and we always will.
Andres Iniesta
“Congratulations on your spectacular career and the legacy you leave behind!”
Marc Marquez
“Thank you Rafa for being a reference for everyone!”
Roland-Garros
“14 million memories.”
Nick Kyrgios
“Rafa, don’t retire, I want to play with you one last time.”
Wimbledon
“A champion forever.”
Alexandre Blanco
“You taught us that greatness lies not only in triumphs, but in the courage, humility and heart that you put into every battle, Rafa Nadal. Spain and the world thank you for every moment, for every life lesson, for “Let us dream and believe that everything is possible. Thank you for being more than a champion, for being a hero. You are and always will be a legend of tennis and world sport.
José Manuel Rodriguez Uribes
“Dear and admired Rafael Nadal. Many thanks to you for giving us so many glorious, unforgettable, wonderful moments that we will always keep in our memory and in our hearts. See you in Malaga for the Davis Cup. A huge hug.”
ATP
“There are no words to describe how it feels when we never wanted to come. You have given us the most incredible moments and memories. Thank you for everything.”
Caroline Marin
“When I was little, I had no reference in my sport to watch. That’s why the person I always aspired to be like was him: for what he represents, for his dedication …And now for his legacy. Thank you very much for that.
