Rafael Nadal’s retirement update has brought a big shock to the whole tennis community. The Spaniard came up with a ray of hope for the retro tennis fans with his comeback in January. However, the toll of injuries on his body was heavy and, therefore, the legend couldn’t take it forward anymore. This update was closely compared to the time when another legend, Roger Federer announced his exit in 2022. As fresh updates continued to emerge on social media, a WTA pro noted one major similarity between the two of the most saddening exits in the tennis world.

When Roger Federer retired from tennis in September 2022, the French sports newspaper L’Equipe paid tribute with a special front page. The headline, “God Save the King,” and a photo of Federer gazing into the sky showcased his legendary status. The newspaper described his playing style as “bordering on art and the sublime” and sparked a debate about whether he was the greatest athlete of all time. As things moved to Rafa’s side after almost two years, a similar tribute was offered to him.

In a touching tribute, the French newspaper featured a historic cover that deserves a place in a museum. Even though the French national football team had just won a 4-1 victory over Israel that very night, L’Équipe dedicated its entire front page to Nadal with the memorable headline, “And the earth stood still.” Just a photo and four words were enough to move sports enthusiasts, including Russian WTA pro Elena Vesnina.

On October 12, she took to her Instagram and shared a story, comparing the common angle of both Federer and Nadal’s newspaper cover: “L’Equipe covers for Federer/Nadal retirement’s. Looking together in the same direction…” she wrote, along with a broken heart emoji to let her feelings out.

As soon as Rafael Nadal announced that he would retire from professional tennis after the Davis Cup Finals in November, newspapers across the globe featured his photo on their front pages, with the headline “Thank you, Rafa” being a common tribute to the Spanish tennis legend’s significant impact on the sport.

The upcoming event in Malaga is set to be on fire as Rafael Nadal would be accompanied by the young champ Carlos Alcaraz for the last time. According to the Spanish news agency EFE, the anticipation for the event has been so high that tickets sold out weeks ago. As a result, resale prices have skyrocketed, with some tickets reaching as much as €34,541($37,800) on platforms like Viagogo.

However, there’s still a lot more to the highly anticipated event as another legend has announced to join his biggest rival there.

Novak Djokovic promises to be present at Rafael Nadal’s last appearance

Rafael Nadal is preparing to make his final appearance in the Davis Cup next month, where team Spain will face the Netherlands in the quarter-finals starting on Tuesday 19 November. Fans are already anticipating the emotional farewell, with many eager to see the tennis legend take to the court one last time. Among big names finalised to grace the arena, 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has promised to be present to honor his longtime rival:

“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport,” Djokovic wrote. He praised Nadal for inspiring millions of children to take up tennis and highlighted his dedication, tenacity, and fighting spirit, calling them qualities that will be “taught for decades.” Djokovic also highlighted that Nadal’s legacy will endure forever in the world of tennis.

Besides the admiration, Djokovic also shared how much their rivalry meant to him personally. “Thank you for pushing me to the very limit so many times in our rivalry that has impacted me the most as a player,” the Serb wrote, extending gratitude for the battles they fought on the court. He acknowledged Nadal’s passion for representing Spain and wished him the best possible farewell with the Davis Cup team.

Djokovic ended his tribute with a heartfelt promise, saying, “I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.” This ensured that one of the greatest rivalries in tennis history will close on a note of mutual respect and admiration.