Rafael Nadal’s career officially ended yesterday. The Spanish legend had hoped to achieve a prestigious result at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals – the last official event of his career – but Spain’s run in Malaga ended much earlier than expected. Netherlands eliminated Spain shocking the whole world.

Everyone thought that Rafa would play doubles alongside Marcel Granollers, but Spanish captain David Ferrer lined him up in the first singles against Botic van de Zandschulp. The 22-time Grand Slam champion gave his best as he has always done throughout his career, but it was not enough to defeat the Dutch player on a very fast surface.

It was probably a mistake to field the former world number 1 in singles. The 14-time French Open champion has played too few matches this year and his last official tournament was the Olympic tournament about three months ago.

Carlos Alcaraz’s win over Tallon Griekspoor put the tie back on level, but the Netherlands won the decisive doubles and qualified for the semi-finals. A very sad epilogue for the legend from Manacor, who hoped to help Spain in his last week as a professional tennis player.

Despite hoping that his last dance would be better, Rafa really has no regrets and can be proud of his legendary career. The 22-time Grand Slam champion is aware that he can no longer be competitive and that his body no longer allows him to play at the level he wants.

Rafa greeted the crowd

After the tie against the Netherlands, Nadal received a beautiful tribute and was emotional when he spoke in front of the crowd.

“I’m privileged. I’ve been able to make my profession my pastime. I’m a lucky one. My family, my team, my friends. I’m a person who believes in continuity, I believe in keeping people who want and making your life better. I’ve kept my family close. Without you this would not have been possible” – the Spaniard said.

“They’ve always been there with me, they always kept me with my feet on the ground. What’s going to happen in the future will be easier to carry. I am calm because I have received an education that allows me to face the future calmly” – he added.

The 14-time French Open champion was very sorry for his loss in the first singles, but his attitude on court was exemplary as always.

“Of course it has been an emotional day, nerves before what can be my last singles match,” stated Nadal.

“Feeling the national anthem for the last time like a professional has been very special. And then of course a little bit of mixed feelings makes things a little bit more difficult.

“But that’s it. We went on court. We live that moment. I tried to do my best. I tried to, at the same time, stay as positive as possible in every single moment, to play with the right energy. It was not enough. Congrats to Botic. That’s all. He was better than me” – he concluded.

A legendary athlete

Many VIPs, players and former players of all sports wanted to send a message to one of the best athletes of all time. The Spanish legend has influenced modern sport and his example has been useful for millions of athletes in every corner of the world. The 38-year-old from Manacor will now begin a new chapter in his life and his legacy will continue to remain in the hearts and minds of fans.

Everyone’s hope was that Spain would reach the final in Malaga this week, so that Rafa could enjoy one last triumph and better celebrate his glorious career.

Despite the disappointment, the Spaniard remained lucid and wanted to thank everyone: “I leave with the peace of mind that I have left a legacy, which I really feel is not just a sporting one but a personal one.

Thanks to all of you, the crowd. It’s over 20 years, good years, bad years. I have been able to live with all of you. I have felt very fortunate to feel so much affection from all over the world, especially here in Spain.”

There is no doubt that Nadal is the greatest athlete in the history of Spanish sport. Some of his records will remain unbeaten for many years and his greatness on red clay has been almost unreal. Rafa has found his natural heir in Carlitos Alcaraz, who has already won four Grand Slam titles and is set to become one of the best ever. The 21-year-old from Murcia is very different from his compatriot, but they both share a huge love for tennis.