Rafael Nadal dropped a bombshell on Thursday and highlighted that evolution is key in every field. The legendary tennis star announced his decision to hang up his racquets and begin the next phase of his life, away from the courts. This decision has left the entire tennis community heartbroken, and one of the most impacted players by this decision is Nadal’s young prodigy and compatriot Carlos Alcaraz.  

It seems to be a day of double heartbreaks for the young Spaniard. He witnessed a baffling defeat in the quarterfinals of the Shanghai Masters against Tomas Machac in straight sets, 7-6(5), 7-5. The decision of the tennis legend to bid farewell to the tennis arena elevated this heartbreak. And now, it seems like Alcaraz is still trying to process the news and facing difficulties in accepting it.

When quizzed during the post-match interview about his reactions to the news of Nadal’s retirement, Alcaraz highlighted he managed to keep his match unimpacted by it. “I couldn’t believe it when I watch it. You know, it doesn’t affect me at all before the match. I didn’t get distracted at all, I was just really focused on the match, I didn’t think about Rafa’s news.” However, it was difficult for the tennis sensation to accept the ultimate truth. 

Continuing further, Alcaraz said, “It is a really difficult thing, really difficult news for everybody, and even tougher for me. He has been my idol since I start playing tennis. I look up to him. Proudly, thanks to him, I really wanted to become a professional tennis player.”

Alcaraz has often highlighted his admiration for Nadal and has claimed that he grew up watching his matches. In the 2023 US Open, Alcaraz even acknowledged Nadal inspired his sleeveless attire. However, he only looks forward to playing alongside him in the remainder of their matches, with the most awaited one being in the Davis Cup. 

“We are going to play in Saudi Arabia, and then Davis Cup, so I’m going to try to enjoy as much as I can the time with him.” Earlier today, Rafael Nadal announced his retirement through a video message. He thanked his entire team and fans and shared that the Davis Cup final would be his last. “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 Sevilla in 2004,” Nadal said in the video. However, it is not the first time Alcaraz expressed such sentiments for the Spanish legend. 

Carlos Alcaraz engaged in an interview ahead of his China Open campaign and highlighted how much the absence of the legendary player impacts him. “I miss him. I’m not going to lie. Obviously, as I said, as much time as I can spend with him, for me it’s a privilege.”

He also struggled to admit that the Davis Cup could be the last match for Nadal and said, “I just want to think that I will try to live or to enjoy his time around, to enjoy seeing him on court as much as I can. Hopefully, it’s not going to be the last time for him.” But it’s not just Alcaraz honoring the legendary play who hung up his shoes. 

Roger Federer gives a fitting tribute to his rival and friend, Roger Federer

Yes, we know Rafa’s worth. It hurts to say he will be missed. The 22-time Grand Slam champion witnessed one of the most successful careers along with his banana shots and sliding forehand. As he prepares to hang up his racquets, the tennis world pays tribute to him in Unison, and Roger Federer is no exception. 

Taking to the comment section of Nadal’s video statement, the Swiss Maestro wrote, “What a career, Rafa.”

Continuing further, he said, “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!” Nadal also received love from other ATP and WTA stars as well, like Nick Kyrgios, Coco Gauff, and Ons Jabeur, who highlighted their anguish over the news. 

But for the fans, the only thing they would be looking forward to is witnessing Rafael Nadal as he picks up his racquet one last time at the Davis Cup. Can he return with a trophy for his country yet again? Well, only time will tell.