There are mixed feelings among the tennis fans. Spanish legend Rafael Nadal is due for his retirement at the Davis Cup Final 8 which commences on November 19. While the world awaits to laud the 22-time Major winner at his farewell ceremony in Malaga, teammate Carlos Alcaraz, meanwhile, is keeping all hands on deck. He is poised to bring glory to his nation with countryman Nadal by his side for the final time. Even the event’s arena has been decorated with ‘Rafa Colors’ to tribute his stellar legacy.

Rafa shocked fans after airing his impending retirement news on October 10. The Spanish maestro issued an emotional statement in which he reminisced about his unforgettable moments in the sport, sharing rivalries with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, and, confirmed that his last dance will come at the Davis Cup. “Hello everyone, I am here to let you know I am retiring from professional tennis. The reality is it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations.” He wasn’t wrong.

The former World No. 1’s injury-marred phases during his career took a toll on his body. A final blow to his athletic prowess came at the Australian Open when a recurring knee injury sidelined him from play and plagued his tour-level performances. He even joined forces with compatriot Alcaraz for a doubles blockbuster at the Paris Olympics, but, to no avail. However, both players are aiming to script a turnaround in the upcoming annual group event.

Fans had a heart-melting in Malaga after they spotted the duo practicing alongside in preparation for the event. Despite missing in action for far too long, and stuck in the shadow of his former self, Nadal looked jacked during his training session. The Spaniard rocked a sleeveless t-shirt during the intense rally session, with fans surrounding both players’ respective courts. After hitting the court side by side, Alcaraz met with Rafa on the side and likely engaged in a conversation with him before packing up for the day.

For those unaware, Alcaraz thanked the ‘King of Clay’ for being an inspiration to the younger generation after defeating him during their final encounter at the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Riyadh, moments before the veteran was gifted a life-size gold racket by the event’s organizers. “It was a privilege to play against Rafa one last time! Once again, thank you for your legacy and for being an inspiration to all of us! See you very soon in Malaga, but this time both wearing the colors of Spain.” And now, Alcaraz has voiced feelings about attending his role model’s farewell.

Carlos Alcaraz is motivated to win the Davis Cup for Rafael Nadal

Just days before the Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga opens doors to its thrilling encounters, Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz has explained reasons why this event holds such an esteemed importance for him. The young talent arrived in Malaga after getting eliminated from the season-ending ATP Finals in the knock-out stage.

Talking to reporters, Alcaraz said: “It’s probably the most special tournament I’ll play in my career, because of what’s happening. The Davis Cup has always been a tournament that I’d love to win one day, I’m passionate about representing Spain. I’ve said it many times: one of the greatest things in the world is being able to represent your country in any field. Having Rafa by my side, knowing it’s his last tournament, will make it much more special. It will be a difficult challenge but winning it for Rafa is a huge motivation.”

Alcaraz and Nadal’s Spain will take the court against Team Netherlands at the highly-anticipated event on November 19. Eight teams are battling for the Davis Cup title won by Italy nearly 12 months ago.