Novak Djokovic has confirmed he will be present in Malaga to "pay respect" to Nadal's career. "You have inspired millions of children to start play
Novak Djokovic has confirmed he will be present in Malaga to “pay respect” to Nadal’s career.
“You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis, and I think that is probably the greatest achievement anyone can wish for”, Djokovic said.
“Your tenacity, dedication, fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades. Your legacy will live forever”, the Serbian king added.
Roger Feder said, “What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come.
Federer continued, “Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. Its been an absolute honour”.
Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer were Nadal’s biggest rivals in his illustrous career. The trio alongside Serena Wiiams were dubbed the “fantastic four”.
Two (Federer and Williams) had left the Tennis world and two were still in the business but Nadal was not active anymore due to series of injuries which have prevented him for competing for the biggest prizes in tennis. Djokovic is the last of the fantastic four standing and it will not be long before he kisses the tennis world goodbye.
Raphael Nadal, 38, will finish his career with 22 Grand Slam titles: the second most amongst men after Novak Djokovic (24) in the Open Era.
The Spaniard is considered as one of the best and most competitive tennis players of all time.
In a statement, the King of Clay said, “I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis. The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations. It is obviously a difficult decision, one that has taken me some time to make.
“But in this life, everything has a beginning and an end, and I think it’s the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have ever imagined.
“But I am very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup and representing my country. I think I’ve come full circle, since one of my first great joys as a professional tennis player was the Davis Cup final in Seville in 2004.
“I feel super, super lucky for all the things I’ve been able to experience. I want to thank the entire tennis industry, all the people involved in this sport: my long-time colleagues, especially my great rivals. I have spent many, many hours with them, and I have lived many moments that I will remember for the rest of my life.
“And finally, you, the fans. I can’t thank you enough for what you have made me feel. You have given me the energy I have needed at every moment. Really, everything I have experienced has been a dream come true.
“I leave with the absolute peace of mind of having given my best, of having made an effort in every way. I can only end by saying a thousand thanks to all and see you soon.
His retirement announcement has been expected since last year and many aren’t surprise to see him bow out.
Happy retirement Raphael Nadal, the World of Tennis will never ever forget your contributions towards the development of the sport.
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