Young Spanish tennis sensation Rafael Nadal, who retired from professional tennis following a Davis Cup quarterfinal tie against the Netherlands, said it was a blessing to be able to witness his entire career, first as a child watching his idol play and then as a teammate during his playing days. On Wednesday morning, 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal’s professional tennis career came to an end with a 6-4, 6-4 loss to Netherlands’ Botic van de Zandschulp in the first round of Spain’s Davis Cup quarterfinals versus the Netherlands.
Later, Carlos Alcaraz demonstrated why he is one of the top players out there, even the match with a convincing 7-6 (0), 6-3 victory over Tallon Griekspoor. However, Alcaraz and Coco Granollers were defeated 7-6 (4), 7-6 (3) in the doubles decider, advancing the Netherlands to the next round.
After the match, Alcaraz posted on Instagram, “There will be many more Davis, but there is only one Rafa.” Thanks to you, I am now a professional tennis player. It has been a blessing to be able to pursue your profession as a child idol, followed by a colleague. “The best possible ambassador, leaving an eternal legacy.” Notably, Alcaraz teamed up with Nadal during the Paris Olympics, but they did not win a medal. They’ve faced off in three matches, with Nadal winning two and Alcaraz winning one.
According to the ATP’s official website, Nadal stated after the match, amid chanting of “Vamos, Rafa” (let’s go, Rafa in Spanish), “I am the one who should be thankful… to Nadal thanked the supporters for their unwavering support, always helping me “win the next point” and “holding him to fight” when things were rough.
Notably, Alcaraz linked up with Nadal during the Paris Olympics but did not win a medal. They’ve met up three times, with Nadal winning two and Alcaraz winning one. According to the ATP’s official website, Nadal said after the match, amid chants of “Vamos, Rafa” (let’s go, Rafa in Spanish), “I am the one who should be pleased… to
Nadal thanked the fans for their steadfast support, always helping me “win the next round” and “holding him to fight” when things became tough. I was able to turn one of my interests into a career, yet the process took far longer than I had anticipated. I can only express gratitude to life.