Rafael Nadal retired from tennis on Tuesday after team Netherlands ended Spain’s Davis Cup Final 8 quest in Malaga. While his two-decade-long glittering career came to an end, fans and players have been focused on paying tribute to him. After the home crowd at the annual group event chanted ‘Rafa Rafa Rafa’ and gave a standing ovation to the Spaniard, a former pro entered the chat to pay her respects.

The Spanish generational talent stunned fans after announcing his impending retirement on October 10. Nadal decided to draw the curtains on his stellar legacy years after being ravaged by injuries, limiting his on-court appearances since the Australian Open in 2022. Despite doubts over Nadal’s involvement in the Davis Cup tie, the veteran took to the court against Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp for the opening singles clashes, but, Nadal unfortunately fell short. He was beaten 6-4, 6-4.

While team Netherlands triumphed 2-1 to snatch the quarterfinal victory, the arena later received the Spanish national anthem’s incoming coupled with Rafa’s farewell ceremony. “I was having an emotional day, nerves before what could be my last singles match as a professional.” With the celebrations done and dusted for, the former World No. 1 later received words of commemoration from Martina Navratilova.

The WTA legend took to her X and posted a heartfelt message for Nadal, reminding everyone of his greatness. “When they made Rafa, they threw away the mold… Chapeau in every direction, Champ.” Nadal was brought to tears during his emotional farewell in Malaga. Moreover, he also made a poignant admission before waving goodbye to fans.

Rafael Nadal hopes to be remembered as a ‘good person from a small village’

Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal achieved what many can only imagine. His dedication, passion, and resilience to do better helped him reach the highest levels In the sport and decorate his nation with esteemed laurels. While his achievements need no introduction, Nadal addressed how he would like to be remembered during an emotional on-court admission at the Davis Cup in Malaga.

Nadal told the crowd, “Titles, the numbers are there so people probably know that but the way that I would like to be remembered more is like a good person from a small village in Mallorca. I had the luck, my uncle was the tennis coach in my village when I was a kid and I had a great family, had a chance to support me in every moment. Just a kid that followed their dreams, worked as hard as possible to be where I am today.”

With his professional career over, Nadal can finally sit back and reap the rewards of his glorious career. While he won’t return to the tour anymore, chances are that Nadal will continue to play the sport recreationally and excite fans at a handful of exhibition events later.