The most important news today is undoubtedly that of the retirement of Rafael Nadal, who will say goodbye to the professional tour after the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga in November. That will be the last event of the legendary career of the Spaniard, aware that it is the right time to start his second life.
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Rafas career has been full of success and longer than expected, considering that he has had many injuries in recent years. The 22-time Grand Slam champion tried to win a few more titles in 2024 - competing at the French Open and his latest Olympics - but the feedback from the court convinced him to make a painful and inevitable decision.
The announcement of the legend by Manacor has generated many reactions in every corner of the world and many illustrious people have dedicated beautifulmessages to one of the greatest athletes ever. The former number 1 of the world will participate in the 'Six Kings Slam' in Saudi Arabia in mid-October and it is not excluded that he can add some more tournaments before the Davis Cup Finals, so as to arrive in better conditions and be able to help his country.
If he is in good shape, Nadal could play both singles and doubles with his young compatriot Carlos Alcaraz. A legend like Nadal has not only achieved many successes on the tennis court, but has also transmitted valuable values to younger players and brought many young people closer to this sport.
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Jannik Sinnerpays tribute to Rafa
During his press conference in Shanghai, World No.1 Jannik Sinner paid tribute to the Spaniard: "It's tough news for the sports world, not just tennis. What I can say is that I was very fortunate to also know him on a personal level; he's an amazing person. Obviously, as a player, we've seen how good he has been, the lessons he has taught us young players, how to behave on the court, how to handle difficult situations.
He has given us many emotions watching him play. Also, maintaining humility at the same time, not changing with success, selecting the right people around him, and having a good family. There are many good things he has given us all. It's tough news, but on the other hand, everything has a beginning and an end. Only he knows how he feels."
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He also commented on the Big 3s impact: "What they have accomplished in recent years has been incredible. There isn't much to say about pressure; it will always be there. But from my side, I focus on myself, on what I have to do on the court, on what I need to improve, and hopefully, that will make me a better and more consistent player. They have been very consistent for many years.
They have not just been consistent in one or two seasons but have done it for 15 years. It's amazing what they have achieved. There are many things we can learn from them, but we can't compare ourselves to them; it's impossible, especially at this moment. I think we have all been very lucky to watch the 'Big 3' play. And I consider myself very fortunate to be able to know them also as people and learn from them."
An incredible generation
Federer, Nadal and Djokovic were examples of longevity and helped each other to improve. Their rivalry has always been clean and the respect that binds them has transcended tennis. Novak will be the only Big 3 still on the court in 2025, but even for him the retirement doesnt seem that far away. The Serbian is still competitive, but in 2024 he did not win a single Grand Slam title and gave some signs of weakness.
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In his message on social media, Rafa said that he is sure of his decision: Im very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup, representing my country. I think Ive come full circle since one of my first joys as a professional tennis player. was the Davis Cup final, and severe in 2004.
I feel super, super lucky for all the things Ive been able to experience. I want to thank the entire tennis industry, all the people involved in this sport, my long-time colleagues, especially my great rivals. I have spent many, many hours with them, and I have lived many moments that I will remember for the rest of my life. I have the absolute peace of mind of having given my best, of having made an effort in every way. I can only end by saying a thousand thanks to all of you.
