Rafael Nadal got emotional while receiving an impassioned 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.
Nadal, overwhelmed with emotions, delivered a moving 15-minute speech at a sold-out Malaga venue.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion struggled to hold back tears as he recalled his journey.
“What I have tried to do is to be a good person, and I hope you’ve seen that,” Nadal told the crowd.
“I leave the tennis world having met so many friends along the way. I have so many people to thank. I leave with the peace of mind of having left a sporting and personal legacy I can be proud about.
“Thanks to all of you, the public. It’s over 20 years (career), 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.”
Earlier, Nadal’s singles match ended in a 6-4, 6-4 loss to Botic van de Zandschulp, breaking his 29-match Davis Cup singles winning streak. Despite Carlos Alcaraz’s victory over Tallon Griekspoor, Spain’s hopes ended when Marcel Granollers and Alcaraz were defeated in the deciding doubles match.
Nadal, who announced his retirement last month, admitted his farewell did not unfold as he had hoped.
