Rafael Nadal bid an emotional farewell to professional tennis on Tuesday, facing defeat in his final match at the Davis Cup. The Spanish legend was bested by Dutch player Botic van de Zandschulp, losing 6-4, 6-4 in the opening rubber of the quarterfinals.
The 38-year-old “King of Clay” showcased flashes of his signature brilliance but couldn’t fully recapture the magic that earned him 22 Grand Slam titles over two decades. Despite the passionate support from fans in Málaga, Nadal experienced his first Davis Cup singles loss in 20 years, bringing his remarkable career full circle.
Young Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz leveled the tie by defeating Tallon Griekspoor 7-6(0), 6-3, dedicating his victory to Nadal. However, in the decisive doubles match, Alcaraz and Marcel Granollers fell to the Dutch duo of Wesley Koolhof and Van de Zandschulp in two tight tiebreaks.
From the sidelines, Nadal cheered fervently for his teammates but appeared reflective as the reality of retirement set in. He commented that ending his career with a loss felt like completing a circle, having also lost his first Davis Cup match back in 2004.
Fans adorned with “Gracias Rafa” scarves gave Nadal a standing ovation during a special presentation honoring his contributions to Spanish tennis, including four Davis Cup victories.
Earlier, Nadal’s longtime rival and friend, Roger Federer, shared a heartfelt message celebrating their journey together in the sport and the unique bond forged through years of competition.
Nadal’s retirement marks the end of an era. His relentless determination, powerful play, and humility have inspired fans and aspiring athletes worldwide. As he steps away from professional tennis, he leaves a legacy of excellence and passion that will resonate for generations to come.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
