The tennis community recently experienced one of the biggest shock of all time. On Thursday, Rafael Nadal, the clay legend himself, shared an emotional video on his social media channels about his retirement from the sport. 23 years in the sport and 22 major titles, including an enduring record at the Roland Garros, the Spaniard is leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. While the update was a shock for the whole sporting world, the closest co-player Roger Federer‘s comment also carried along tons of emotions. Surprisingly, Federer saw this coming.

Rafael Nadal recently has recently marketed the Davis Cup finals next month for his last appearance as a pro, bringing an end to a remarkable career that started in 2001. The Spanish tennis legend took to social media to explain that the persistent injuries over the last few years were behind his choice. “The reality is that it has been some difficult years, the last two especially,” Nadal shared, adding, “I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations.”

Toni Nadal, his uncle and former coach, revealed that Nadal, before coming to this decision, informed close friends and family about his plans to retire around a month ago. Interestingly, just about that time, Roger Federer, his long-time rival and friend, hinted that he might have gotten some insight into Nadal’s decision. “I actually just spoke to him this last week. He wanted to ask me something, and I felt a little bit sorry for him,” Federer said in an interview a month ago, raising speculation that Nadal had dropped a major hint in him.

The Swiss tennis maestro, who retired in 2022 after an emotional farewell at the Laver Cup where he teamed up with Nadal for a doubles match, paid tribute to Nadal on social media soon after the announcement surfaced. “What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come,” Federer wrote on Instagram.“Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love.”

The fans were more than excited when Rafa decided to make a comeback earlier this year. Starting with the Brisbane International, he unfortunately couldn’t make it to the Australian Open because of incurring an injury. While the season brought multiple ups and downs for him, the fans already knew that this decision was coming. However, the fact that Roger Federer carried a hint about the close timeline makes it highly likely that he was one of the closest people that Rafa relied on before reaching a conclusion.

The strong bond between Federer and Nadal is clear, not only through their on-court battles but also because of their mutual respect off the court. However, besides Federer, the Serbian tennis great Novak Djokovic also couldn’t hold his emotions after going through the saddening update.

Djokovic to attend Rafael Nadal’s final Davis Cup match in November

Rafael Nadal will be retiring after representing Spain in the Davis Cup Finals this November. With his departure, Novak Djokovic will be the only member of the “Big 3” still playing professionally. Currently ranked fourth in the world, Djokovic continues to stay on top of men’s tennis, even after being 37 years old. After hearing the news of Nadal’s retirement, Djokovic shared a heartfelt message on Instagram.

“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport. You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis, and I think that’s probably the greatest achievement anyone can wish for,” Djokovic wrote.

Djokovic went on to talk about Nadal’s hard work and dedication over the years. “Your tenacity, dedication, and fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades. Your legacy will live forever,” he added. Djokovic thanked Nadal for pushing him to his limits during their intense rivalry, which helped shape him as a player. They have played some of the most memorable matches in tennis history.

Djokovic further said he will be attending to show his respect to Nadal. “I wish you the best possible farewell in Malaga with the Davis Cup team of Spain,” he said. “I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.” Djokovic and Nadal first met on the court in 2006 at the French Open, where Nadal secured a remarkable win. Their last match was at the Paris Olympics, where Djokovic came out on top, eventually adding a gold medal to his portfolio.

Now that it is final that the Seb will grace the Davis Cup finals with his presence, it still remains to be seen if Federer will accompany him, to make Rafa’s farewell special.