Malaga celebrated Rafael Nadal on the day of the farewell of the legendary Spanish champion, who couldn't hold back his tears of emotion. David Ferrer chose Rafa for the first match of the challenge against Holland at the Davis Cup Finals, but the 22-time Grand Slam champion was defeated in the match against Botic van de Zandschulp.
Fans immediately filled the stands of the Palacio de Deportes Jos Mara Martn Carpena and moved the Spanish champion, making the atmosphere incredible. An atmosphere so emotional and engaging that Nadal - during the Spanish national anthem - couldn't hold back his tears.
Rafa fought until the end, but he was unable to get that point against Van De Zandshulp that could have been decisive for the qualification to the semifinals. For once, however, the sporting disappointment took a back seat, because every single spectator present was there to pay homage to the 14-time French Open champion, aware that that could have been his last match.
After the defeat of Alcaraz and Granollers in doubles, the scene was all for Rafa, who with a moving and emotional speech, greeted his crowd, amid the emotion of the entire Martin Carpen Arena.
"I am privileged to have received the affection of the whole world but especially of the Spanish. I have to congratulate the Dutch guys and say hello to my teammates. It didn't go as I hoped, but I gave everything I had. This is my last day as a professional tennis player. Now it's up to you guys to continue the work. It's never easy to stop, I still love tennis to death but I can't be competitive anymore. My body doesn't allow me to do it anymore.
I hug my family and all my friends. During the twenty years as a professional I tried to change staff as little as possible and I always had the people I loved close to me. I didn't think I could have such a successful career. My family taught me manners and helped me to always keep my feet on the ground. Of course they will remember me for the tournaments I won, but I care more about being remembered as a good person," explained Nadal.
