It is a chorus of voices which, through social networks, celebrates the King of red clay, Rafael Nadalthe day he announced his official retirement from competitive professional tennis.
The first to comment on the video, posted on Instagram by the Spanish champion, is his eternal rival, but also his great friend Roger Federer, another tennis legend, who will retire in 2022: Roger Federer. “What a career Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible successes in the sport we love. It was an absolute honor!”, she wrote.
Immediately after announcing his retirement after the Davis Cup, ATP wanted to pay tribute to Rafa Nadal with a message “Gracias, Rafa” and a Hashtag: #RafaSiempre. The official Wimbledon profile writes “Thank you for everything Rafa” and the Roland Garros profile simply comments “King”.
A single word, but very effective, posted in capital letters by Matteo Berrettini: “Legend»! While world number one Jannik sinner writes: “The King of Earth, thank you Rafa”.
“Thank you for everything, example and legend forever,” he wrote Fernando Verdasco, Spanish tennis player and coach.
Until the last Internationals in Rome he was welcomed and greeted by a veritable crowd. And the organization of the Italian tournament was among the first to comment on the announcement of Nadal's retirement: “We will miss you Rafa.”
Direct and almost emotional Paolo Bertolucci by commenting live on the news of Rafa's farewell to tennis Sky Sports 24: “A deep sadness because time passes and because we are losing one of the greatest champions that sport has ever known,” said the former Italian tennis player. “He had been nurturing this decision for some time. When you get up in the morning and it takes several minutes to get up again, that means the time has come to say enough. He rightly said that there had a beginning and an end and he, in this very long journey, he taught millions of people how to behave on the fieldself-sacrifice, courage, seriousness and heart. A amazing guy and to have known him was a true privilege – continued Bertolucci.
To honor Nadal and his sporting career, even champions from outside the tennis world, like Cristiano Ronaldo, global football icon: “What an incredible career you have had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions of people around the world. It was an honor to witness your career And power call a friend“, he commented.
Messages of admiration also arrived from Paulo Dybala, Roma's Argentinian striker and former Juventus player, and midfielder Miralem Pjanic, also admired in Serie A, wearing the jerseys of Roma and Juventus.
Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz, July 31, 2024 (dpa)
