WATCH: Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Serena Williams team up for emotional Rafael Nadal tribute
Yesterday at 02:16 AM
Tennis legends Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Serena Williams as well as football greats including Iker Casillas, Andres Iniesta and David Beckham have come together for a tribute video to Rafael Nadal.
There were emotional scenes in Malaga, Spain, on Tuesday as 22-time Grand Slam winner Nadal played his last-ever match in the Davis Cup as he went down against Botic van de Zandschulp during Spain's defeat to the Netherlands.
Having announced before the tournament that it would be his last event, the former world No 1 admitted after the loss that he “closed the circle” as the curtain came down on his illustrious career.
“It’s in some ways good maybe if that was my last match. I lost my first match in the Davis Cup, and I lost my last one, so we close the circle,” he stated.
Naturally, the tributes started to flow and the Davis Cup organisers posted an incredible video of the who’s who of tennis saying their emotional goodbyes.
Current Spain midfielder Rodri as well as former greats Iker Casillas, Raul and Andres Iniesta started off the video while former England and Real Madrid player David Beckham also played a part.
But the tennis greats also played a starring role in the incredible video.
Serena Williams: “Gosh! You just have meant so much. In my career you've inspired me to have so many wins, to keep going, to fight, to get better, to improve, to basically play like you. My goodness you will be missed.”
Andy Murray: “The passion and intensity that you played with was something that I think all tennis players aspire to and all the tennis fans will remember you for. It's been incredible watching you. Thanks for everything Rafa, enjoy retirement mate.”
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Novak Djokovic: “Your tenacity, your fighting spirit, the energy that you brought, the power is something that will be studied and is something that will be transferred to many many generations that are coming up. I've been very honoured and thrilled to be called your rival. The tennis world and the sports world will miss the incredible energy that you brought on the court. There is so much to embrace, so much to celebrate. Thank you very much and good luck my friend.”
Conchita Martinez: “Hi Rafa. I have been very lucky to see you grow as a tennis player and a person. I want to congratulate you, of course, on all your victories in your career. Very, very special. I wish you the best for what’s to come.”
For your fighting spirit.
For your humility and kindness.
For everything you've done for tennis.
Gracias, Rafa. pic.twitter.com/tDicj5KUI5
— Davis Cup (@DavisCup) November 19, 2024
Roger Federer: “Congratulations on the most incredible career. It was such a privilege to play with you but especially against you. Some of my favourite memories with you Rafa, of course, was the 2008 Wimbledon finals where you got me. I wish you all the best for what's to come with your wonderful family. Congratulations on the most incredible career. Enjoy the moment. Take care, Rafa.”
Juan Martin del Potro: “I want to thank you for all the moments shared on tour, for everything we learned from you. A hug and thanks for everything.”
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