As Luka Modric prepares to leave Real Madrid after 13 extraordinary years, Rafael Nadal shared an emotional tribute that resonated far beyond the football pitch.
Real Madrid officially confirmed that their long-time midfielder and captain will part ways with the club after this summer’s Club World Cup. Since arriving from Tottenham in 2012, Modric has lifted six Champions League trophies and claimed 28 titles in total, writing his name into the club’s and sport’s history books.
Among the many tributes Modric received, Rafael Nadal’s message stood out. Sharing two photos of the midfielder, Rafa wrote:
“How lucky we’ve been to enjoy you for so long, Luka Modric. Thank you for all these years of being an example on and off the field. Congratulations on an incredible career at Real Madrid. I wish you all the best in the future!”
The tribute carried extra meaning, as Rafa himself officially retired from tennis at the Davis Cup Final 8 in Málaga last year. His words to Modric weren’t just from a fan — they were from one sporting great to another, united by shared values: humility, leadership, and a legacy built over years of consistent excellence.
