Twitter erupted on Wimbledon Day two as veteran Spaniard and former World No. 6, Carla Suarez Navarro, drew the curtain on her 13-year-old long-standing career. Biding goodbye to the court, Carla played her final Wimbledon Championship. Even though she lost the game to her opponent, Ashleigh Barty, she won hearts all around the world. As she left the arena for one last time, the crowd was up on their feet, applauding the 32-year-old’s resilience and spirit. From Novak Djokovic to Nick Kyrgios, and from fans and followers to fellow tennis peers, everyone took to Twitter, to show an out-pour of love and admiration for the Spaniard.

Twitter erupts into tears

Commending Carla’s effort and character, the tennis fraternity came together to give her the farewell she deserved. “True warrior spirit”, said Novak Djokovic, reminding the Spaniard to keep her head high as she has “so much to be proud of”.

The retired player turned coach, Rennae Stubbs Oly, said, “The sweetest one of backhands will be missed on center court”, while fellow Australian Tenis star, Nick Kyrgios, called Carla “An absolute legend”.

Playing her part in this memorable match was Carla’s opponent, Ashleigh Barty, who was all praise for the veteran. “Congratulations Carla! A privilege sharing this moment with you”, she said on Twitter.

Renowned personalities from outside of the tennis world also paid tribute to the Spaniard’s glorious career. Spanish International goalkeeper and Manchester United star, David de Gea applauded the veteran too, retweeting the iconic moment. Billie Jean was also among the many who showed their support by calling Carla a “Fighter”. 

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Carla Suarez Navarro is a fighter indeed

This was Carla’s first return to the court, since being diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma in September 2020. The news of her beating cancer brought relief to fans all over the world who were praying hard for her recovery. However, the announcement of her departure from world tennis came as a shock to many but was understandably received.

Playing her final Wimbledon Championship, the veteran took the fight to Barty, making her work for every single point. The crowd erupted when she won the second set, taking the game by its crux. The match ended with a scoreline of 6-1, 7-6, 6-1, with Ash winning the game.

In awe of the outpouring of love, Carla took to Twitter to thank everyone for their admiration and respect.

Although this was goodbye for Carla, she will be seen representing Spain at the Tokyo Olympic games 2020. While her departure from the sport saddens many, it will be nothing less than a privilege to watch her don the colors of her country, gracing the court, one last time.