Rafael Nadal has stolen all the headlines today for good reason.
That is, without even playing a tennis match.
For many, this day was never bound to be far away, but fans of his were supremely hopeful, perhaps ridiculously so, that it would never come.
But, here it is. Nadal has revealed that he will officially retire from tennis.
Carlos Alcaraz reacts to Rafael Nadal’s retirement
Jannik Sinner sent his thanks to Nadal, whilst Nick Kyrgios begged Nadal to reconsider retirement.
Everyone has had their own way of wishing the 37-year-old well in the future, and praising all he accomplished during his sparkling career.
However, Carlos Alcaraz arguably takes precedent, as a fellow Spaniard who grew up idolising Nadal.
He would tell him so on X, wasting no time after losing to Tomas Machac in the Shanghai Masters.
The 21-year-old wrote: ‘From the child who watched you on television and dreamed of becoming a tennis player to the one who had the immense gift of playing alongside you at Roland Garros representing Spain in the Olympic Games! Thank you very much for being an example at all levels, your legacy is unrepeatable! I have enjoyed you very much and I will miss you very much when you leave after the Davis Cup, Rafa!’
Carlos Alcaraz got one last memorable moment with Rafael Nadal
Whilst the numerous heartfelt eulogies pouring in for Rafael Nadal are all justified, few can say that they enjoyed their final foray onto a court beside the Spaniard.
Well, Alcaraz can, as the two combined brilliantly at the Olympics to capture the hearts of the Parisian crowd, even if they failed to secure a medal.
Just to see these two Spaniards combine, the future and the past of their country’s excellence within the sport, was mesmeric.
It dominated the media, as it should, and is now even more pertinent following Nadal’s announcement.
Now more than ever their doubles partnership seems like a real passing of the torch,
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