Andy Roddick revealed an interesting insight about Rafael Nadal. While the American has been a constant admirer of the Spaniard, he offered another exciting assessment, highlighting Nadal’s achievements. As Roddick delved deeper into the topic, he explained why Nadal deserves a grand farewell.
Roddick had an intriguing revelation while speaking about Rafael Nadal on his podcast. Nadal announced his retirement yesterday after struggling with poor form for two years. While he was uncertain about the decision during this year’s Roland Garros, he confirmed it after announcing his participation in the Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga. Previously, Nadal withdrew from the Laver Cup due to his inconsistent form. Although his decision to play in the Davis Cup delighted his supporters, they were left with heavy hearts after yesterday’s announcement. Now, Andy Roddick has shared his thoughts on the Mallorcan legend.
“The scale they have done, the way I explain kind of the generations before and this is no disrespect to the generations before, you know greatest greatest greatest great. The leader in the clubhouse as for men’s singles, Grand Slam titles. When I started my career was the great Pete Sampras, who got the 14, I actually played Pete in the last Grand Slam that he won and he beat me as if he was the greatest of all time and I was me. So 14 total Grand Slam titles right? which is an absurd thing to think about. Rafa match that in a single event. He matched the previous all time Grand Slam title, number of 14 in a single event at Roland Garros,” Roddick said.
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He referenced Sampras to illustrate the greatness of the Spanish ATP star. His main point was how Nadal won 14 titles in a single Grand Slam event when the previous generation considered 14 as the highest ever achieved by a player. Roddick’s opinion highlights Nadal’s impact on the sport’s records and statistics. His incredible 22 Grand Slam titles are a testament to his legendary skill.
Now, Roddick has always been a fan of Nadal. He praised the legend’s on- and off-court demeanor, showcasing his admiration for the player.
Andy Roddick praised Rafael Nadal calling him “lucky” under the Spaniard’s presence
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In an episode of his podcast in March, Roddick offered a great compliment for Nadal. “We are lucky to have someone like Rafa in tennis for as long as we have. Every single person he comes across, it’s like he doesn’t have an off day with people, right? Shaking hands of every single person, there’s no chance he can feel like doing that crap every day. There’s just no chance. True gentleman, I like that and it felt like a celebration of him in like a thank you for what you have given us over the years,” said Roddick.
Andy Roddick’s words for Rafa express his love and respect for the Mallorcan legend. Nadal received widespread gratitude from around the world after announcing his retirement. This affirms his legacy in the sport. Regardless of his retirement, this legacy will always be cherished by tennis lovers.