Serena Williams honored Rafael Nadal in her own way, poking fun at the Spaniard - who retired at the Davis Cup Finals - about his outfits, especially his short pants. The American legend, who has enjoyed most of her successes alongside Rafa's, was one of many tennis icons who paid homage to the 22-time Grand Slam champion just hours after his farewell.
ADVERTISEMENT
"Rafael Nadal, my God. This name is synonymous with legend, inspiration and strength. First of all, I have always admired Rafa and I liked what he has achieved since he arrived on the Tour, with those shorts, which I thought were very cool and very elegant because, of course, I love fashion!
Then his strength, the size of his arms, were a source of inspiration. I think Rafa will always be one of the most iconic tennis players in the history of this sport. I remember watching his matches and thinking that I wanted to move like him, to play like him. He is an exceptional tennis player, an extraordinary athlete, an amazing person, always incredibly kind on and off the court. I also love Rafa's humility: it is absolutely unmatched! I will miss watching you play," she told.
ADVERTISEMENT
This beginning of the week the tennis world has rallied around Nadal, who retired after more than 20 years of a career full of successes. The Spanish champion said goodbye with a defeat against Botic Van de Zandschulp, who beat him in the Davis Cup singles, giving a point to his Netherlands, which later proved to be fundamental for the qualification.
Among the many athletes who wanted to dedicate a message to the Majorcan on the occasion of his retirement, the other three members of the Fab 4 could obviously not be missed. Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray appeared on the big screen of the Palacio de Deportes Jos Mara Martn Carpena to celebrate the career of one of the greatest legends of the sport.
