Federer Leads As Tributes Pour In For Rafael Nadal

By: Gyang Dakwo

Roger Federer led the tributes after Rafael Nadal announced his retirement from tennis.

The 38-year-old will bow out from tennis after the Davis Cup Finals in November. Nadal’s Spain face the Netherlands in the quarter-finals in Malaga on November 19.

He will retire as one of the greats of the game, having won 22 Grand Slams – including 14 French Open titles.

Roger Federer admitted he “hoped this day would never come” as he led the tributes to Rafael Nadal, who announced he will retire from tennis at the end of the season.

Nadal took to social media on Thursday to announce the news, saying: “Hello everyone, I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis.”

Tributes and reactions poured in after the announcement – including from his great rival Federer.

“What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honor!” wrote Federer on Instagram.

Meanwhile, Nadal’s other fierce rival, 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, said that the Spaniard’s “legacy will live forever”, labelling the 14-time French Open winner an “icon of tennis”.

Nadal was part of one of the all-time great tennis matches at Wimbledon in 2008, beating Federer in a five-set epic. The Wimbledon X account said he was “forever a champion”.

Nadal’s influence extended far beyond tennis and Real Madrid legend – the team Nadal supports – and former Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo wrote: “Rafa, what an incredible race you’ve had!

“Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honour to witness your journey and to be able to call you a friend. Congrats on an amazing career! Enjoy your retirement!”

Current Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe also posted a message on social media, which read: “Well done on your career Rafa, you’re an example as a player and a person. You will always be a legend.”