Cristiano Ronaldo has paid a heartwarming tribute to Rafael Nadal after the Spaniard confirmed his retirement from tennis on October 10, 2024.
Nadal revealed in a touching video shared on his X (formerly known as Twitter) account that he will be calling time on his 2-decade-long tennis career after the Davis Cup finals in November 2024.
The tennis icon will be bowing out of the sport after claiming a staggering 22 Grand Slam titles, including 14 at the French Open.
Rafael Nadal Confirms Retirement From Tennis
Confirming his retirement from the sport, Rafael Nadal said: “Hello everyone. I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis.
“The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations.”
The 38-year-old also made it known that he is very delighted his last tournament will be the Davis Cup, where he will be featuring for Spain.
He added: “I think it is the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have ever imagined.
“But, I am very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup and representing my country.”
A teenage Nadal was a member of the Spain team that defeated the USA to win the Davis Cup trophy on home soil in 2004.
Moreover, Rafael Nadal also appreciated his team and his fans, before sharing: “I leave with 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, and see you soon.”
The Tribute Of Cristiano Ronaldo To Rafael Nadal
In paying his tribute to Nadal, Cristiano Ronaldo shared that the tennis star has had an incredible career.
Ronaldo also expressed that Rafael Nadal’s dedication, passion, and incredible talent have inspired millions globally.
Additionally, Cristiano Ronaldo claimed it has been an honor for him to witness the 38-year-old’s journey and be able to call the Spaniard a “friend”.
Ronaldo concluded his tribute with a congratulatory message to Nadal and sent his best wishes to the 4-time US Open winner following his retirement announcement.
Cristiano Ronaldo
The 39-year-old is currently focused on international assignments with Portugal, with the forward expected to feature in their UEFA Nations League games against Poland and Scotland on October 12, and October 15, 2024.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been in blistering form this campaign, scoring 10 goals and providing 3 assists in 11 matches for club and country.
During the September 2024 international break, Ronaldo recorded a milestone 900th career goal in Portugal’s 2-1 win over Croatia.
Impressively, Cristiano Ronaldo extended his goal tally to 901 goals for club and country in Roberto Martinez’s side’s subsequent game against Scotland on September 8, 2024.
The former Juventus man has now scored 905 goals in over 1200 matches for club and country.
Ronaldo has also been stellar for Al Nassr, scoring 8 goals and providing 3 assists in 9 matches across all competitions.
Who Is Rafael Nadal?
Rafael Nadal Parera is a Spanish professional tennis player, who was born on June 3, 1986, in Manacor, Mallorca, Spain, to mother Ana María Parera Femenías and father Sebastián Nadal Homar.
The Spaniard has one sibling, a sister, María Isabel Nadal, born in 1989. he is married to Maria Francisca Perello, and they have one child, a boy.
Nadal turned pro in 2001 and he will retire in 2024, having revealed that in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) on October 10, 2024.
Rafael Nadal’s Achievements?
Rafael Nadal has claimed 92 career titles, including 22 Grand Slams (2 Australian Open, 14 French Open, 2 Wimbledon, and 4 US Open).
