Rafael Nadal’s career came to a poignant end on Tuesday as Spain was eliminated from the Davis Cup by the Netherlands in the quarterfinals, marking the 38-year-old tennis legend’s final professional appearance. Amid the 2-1 loss, Nadal, visibly emotional, took to the stage in a packed arena in Malaga to address his fans in a heartfelt 15-minute speech.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who has been a defining figure in tennis for over two decades, fought back tears as he reflected on his journey. “What I have tried to do is to be a good person, and I hope you’ve seen that,” Nadal told the audience, his voice filled with emotion.
Nadal, who announced his retirement last month, acknowledged the bittersweet nature of his farewell. “I leave the tennis world with the peace of mind of having left a sporting and personal legacy I can be proud of,” he continued. “It’s been over 20 years, with good years and bad years. I’ve been able to live with all of you. I feel so fortunate for all the affection I’ve received, especially here in Spain.”
The match itself ended with Nadal suffering a 6-4, 6-4 loss to Botic van de Zandschulp, snapping his 29-match winning streak in Davis Cup singles. Despite a victory from Carlos Alcaraz over Tallon Griekspoor, Spain’s hopes were dashed when the Spanish duo of Alcaraz and Marcel Granollers lost the deciding doubles match.
Nadal, ever graceful in his farewell, spoke of his decision to retire, acknowledging the toll his body had taken. “My body has told me it doesn’t want to play tennis anymore, and I have to accept that,” he said. “I’ve been privileged to turn my passion into my profession, and I am so thankful for my family, my team, and my friends who have supported me throughout this journey.”
As Spain’s Davis Cup captain, David Ferrer, faced some criticism for including Nadal in the squad, the Netherlands advanced to the semifinals, where they will meet the winner of the Canada-Germany tie.
