“I think I’ve come full circle,” said an emotional Rafael Nadal when he announced that he would finally hang up his racket at the Davis Cup. Highly regarded as one of the tennis GOATs, the Spaniard ended the speculations surrounding his career. With the event all set to start in a week, the anticipation around the same is high. Even the likes of Carlos Alcaraz, who will be his team member think nothing is more important than a grand farewell for the legend.

Carlos Alcaraz shared his thoughts on Rafael Nadal’s upcoming farewell at the Davis Cup 2024, where the two will represent Spain. After being eliminated from the ATP Finals group stage, Alcaraz spoke about the significance of this moment for tennis fans and for Nadal himself. He said, “Rafa’s farewell is more important than the Davis Cup. There are Davis Cups every year, but there is only one ‘farewell’ to a tennis legend.”

Alcaraz highlighted the emotional weight of Nadal playing his final tournament at the Davis Cup, a competition that has meant so much to the tennis icon. Referring to Nadal’s memorable victory against Andy Roddick, Alcaraz said, “Doing it in a tournament so special for him, which has meant so much to him since that victory against Roddick, it will be very special.”

This marks the second time in 2024 that Nadal and Alcaraz will team up, having previously done so at the Paris Olympics. Nadal’s contributions to Spain’s Davis Cup victories in 2004, 2008, 2009, 2011, and 2019 make this farewell even more significant. Alcaraz expressed his hopes for Nadal, saying, “I hope he can retire with the title.”

With the event just one week away, it is certain that he will be teaming up with Carlos Alcaraz for a doubles encounter. However, playing in the singles would still depend on how his body is feeling both physically and mentally. Not only Carlos Alcaraz, but even Nadal’s rival and legend Novak Djokovic also ensured to be present during the Spaniard’s last dance at the event.

Apart from Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic is also confirmed to be there for Rafael Nadal’s last dance at Davis Cup

Novak Djokovic confirmed that he will be there for Nadal’s last dance in Spain. Rafael Nadal expressed his happiness on the same and opened up on facing Novak Djokovic in what could be their final matchup, calling it a nostalgic moment. The tennis legend, who is set to retire after the Davis Cup 2024, reflected on the special rivalry he shares with Djokovic. “To have Novak in front [of me], it’s like a nostalgic thing,” Nadal said, emphasizing the importance of their past encounters.

Over the years, Nadal and Djokovic have delivered some of the most memorable matches in tennis history. They have played each other 60 times out with Djokovic winning 31 of those. As the two prepare to meet one last time, Nadal expressed his excitement for the opportunity. “We’ve played each other a lot, so it’ll be fun to play each other again one more time in this match,” he added, highlighting the significance of their enduring rivalry. Nadal also spoke about his hopes for their upcoming encounter, saying, “Hopefully we can create a good show and a good level of entertainment.”

With Davis Cup being the last event, one more member from the legendary Big 3 is set to leave the sport. However, the legacy that Nadal has left will be for years to come and will be cherished by many. What are your thoughts on this? Do let us know in the comments below!