Thursday, October 10, 2024, 12:26
| Updated 1:08 p.m.
As soon as Rafa Nadal‘s retirement announcement was announced, the world of sports poured out messages of affection and gratitude to the figure of the Balearic tennis player. “Thanks to you, Rafa,” was the statement published by the Spanish Tennis Federation. “Thank you 14 times for millions of memories!” was the reaction to the Roland Garros tournament in which Nadal became eternal on the Paris clay.
«What a race Rafa. I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your achievements in the sport we love. “It has been an absolute honor,” wrote who was, along with Novak Djokovic, the biggest rival of his sporting career, but also one of his best friends, Roger Federer, who cried with Nadal when the Swiss played his last match with the Spaniard. as a professional, in September 2022.
«Spain recognizes an idol in you, for your achievements. And admire, for your , the person behind a superlative tennis player. “You will always be the one who represents our way of feeling about sport,” wrote the Higher Sports Council (CSD). «Dear and admired Rafa Nadal. A thousand thanks to you for having given us so many moments of glory, unforgettable, wonderful, that we will always keep in our memory, in our hearts. See you in Malaga at the Davis Cup. A huge hug,” was the reaction of the president of the CSD, José Manuel Rodríguez Uribes.
Among his professional colleagues, the Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios, despite not having a good relationship with Nadal, also surrendered to the Manacor native. «We had our differences but you were an incredible fighter. My best wishes and good luck with whatever comes,” wrote the Australian.
Among footballers, Cristiano Ronaldo was one of the first to write on social networks to send a public message to Nadal. «Rafa, what an incredible career you have had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honor to witness your journey and be able to call you a friend. Congratulations on an amazing career! “Enjoy your retirement!” were the Portuguese’s words.
Among the recently retired players, the messages from former Real Madrid footballers Toni Kroos and Raphael Varane stood out. «What an example as a player and most importantly as a person! See you soon, Rafa,” Kroos wrote. “Legend! Congratulations on an incredible race, Rafa,” was Varane’s message.
