Rafael Nadal's amazing career came to an end at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, which were held in Malaga in front of a crowd that was ready to celebrate one of the best athletes of the modern era.
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It must be admitted that the farewell tour of the Spanish legend was below expectations and the final ceremony disappointed everyone, also because no one expected the Spanish team's run to end already in the quarterfinals.
However, nothing can scratch the immense legacy of a champion who has made the history of sport thanks to his exploits on the field and his attitude.
It was not easy for the former world number 1 to accept the idea of retirement and start another chapter of his life, but a series of clues allowed Rafa to realize that it was the right time to make that painful decision.
At one point last season, the 22-time Grand Slam champion had considered the possibility of continuing to play in 2025 and it is for this reason that he did not want to receive any celebration either in Rome or at Roland Garros.
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However when he realized that his body no longer responded adequately and that he would no longer be competitive at the highest level Nadal announced his decision to the world and has never had any regrets about it.
Monte Carlo wants to pay tribute to Rafa
Several weeks ago, it was announced that the Spaniard will receive a beautiful tribute during the 2025 edition of the French Open.
Rafa made the history of this tournament, breaking one of the most impressive records in modern sport.
In a recent interview with 'RMC Sports', David Massey current director of the Monte Carlo Masters 1000 revealed that he would like to organize an event in honor of Nadal (who has triumphed 11 times in the Principality).
"I was told that a tribute to Rafa in Paris has already been planned this year. It will be a very special moment in a tournament that has had enormous significance for him. We hope to do the same for Nadal in 2026," Massey explained.
