Rafael Nadal’s retirement announcement left the tennis world in disbelief. The 22-time Grand Slam champion revealed that his final professional match would take place at the Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga, Spain, in November. As fans and players grapple with this emotional news, Nadal’s close friend and former rival, Roger Federer, expressed his heartfelt feelings about the Spaniard’s decision.

Taking everyone by surprise, Rafa aired his much-anticipated retirement via an emotional video released on social media platforms. The former World No. 1 started by saying: “Hello everyone. I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis”. Quickly taking notice of the update, Federer took to his official Instagram handle to honor the Spanish legend.

He wrote, “What a career, Rafa! 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 honor.” Though the ‘Swiss Maestro’ did not mince his words, chances are he will have a heart-to-heart sitdown with Rafa soon – possibly during Nadal’s upcoming Davis Cup commitment.

Dubbed the ‘King of Clay’ and often regarded as one of the best players ever produced by the sport, Rafa has seldom disappointed fans. However, snake-bitten with multiple physical concerns and injury-marred since his 2023 Australian Open, the Spaniard wasn’t able to evade the shadow of his former self. While his recent on-court participations reflected no improvement, the former World No. 1 thought it best to conclude his shining legacy without further tainting it with a string of back-to-back losses.

For the uninitiated, Federer hung his rackets in 2022 after making a series of appearances at the Laver Cup. While the Swiss’ retirement ceremony brought him down to tears, his close friend Rafa stood by his side, aiding him through the emotional phase. Moreover, Fed’s ceremony at the annual group event broke Nadal as well, with multiple sightings of him wiping tears in the aftermath. That was natural, considering the duo’s long-drawn history and their historic clash at Wimbledon.

Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer marked the longest Wimbledon match in 2008

Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal and Swiss Maestro Roger Federer ushered greatness for generations to come. Both players mark a historic era in the sport, with their rivalry captivating many. While their contests never failed to thrill fans, a particular one registered a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts – namely, their 2008 Wimbledon title decider.

Regarded as the “greatest tennis match” by American icon John McEnroe, Nadal outclassed his Swiss rival Federer in the summit clash of the grasscourt slam in a nerving five-set showdown 6-4, 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-7(8), 9-7. Subsequently, the four-hour and 48-minute affair was labeled as the longest SW19 final in history at the time. This triumph also helped Nadal settle his dues outside Paris for the first time, where he had already registered four victories.

With a slow closure to the ‘Big Three’ era, the sport and its dynamics will change quickly. Gone are the days when fans put everything on the line just to witness Djokovic, Nadal, and Federer lock horns. With Rafa gone, chances are that Carlos Alcaraz will give a shot at replicating his impressive resume and, once again, bring glory to his nation!