Rafael Nadal felt emotional as he received an enthusiastic farewell from his fans in a packed arena in Malaga on Tuesday, following Spain’s 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands in the Davis Cup.
The match marked the 38-year-old’s final professional appearance, bringing an end to his illustrious career.
Overwhelmed with emotions, Nadal delivered an emotional 15-minute speech in a packed Malaga stadium.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion struggled to hold back tears as he recalled his journey.
“What I tried to do was be a good person, and I hope you saw that,” Nadal told the fans.
“I leave the world of tennis having met many friends along the way. I have many people to thank and I leave with peace of mind that I have left a sporting and personal legacy that I can be proud of.
“Thank you to all of you, the audience. It has been more than 20 years (in career), good years and bad years. I have been able to live with all of you. I have felt very lucky because I feel so much affection from all over the world, especially here in Spain.” “.
Earlier, Nadal’s singles match ended in a 6-4, 6-4 loss to Boteach van de Zandschulp, breaking his streak of singles victories in the Davis Cup, which lasted 29 matches. Although Carlos Alcaraz defeated Talon Grixpor, Spain’s hopes ended when Marcel Granollers and Alcaraz were defeated in the decisive doubles match.
Nadal, who announced his retirement last month, admitted that his farewell did not go as he had hoped.
“Obviously it didn’t go the way we wanted. I gave what I had. I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to spend these last days as a professional team player,” Nadal said.
He added, “My body told me that it doesn’t want to play tennis anymore and I have to accept that. I’m lucky. I’ve been able to make my hobbies my profession. I’m lucky.”
“My family, my team, my friends. I am a person who believes in continuity, and I believe in keeping the people you love and who make your life better. You have kept my family close. Without you this would not have been possible.”
When Spain’s Davis Cup captain David Ferrer faced criticism for Nadal’s inclusion, the Netherlands advanced to face the winner of the Canada-Germany match in the semi-finals.