Tennis fans are unsurprisingly clamouring to catch one last glimpse of Rafael Nadal whenever and wherever they can.
After all, with each new city and tournament he plays in, it is expected that it will be his last, with rumours surrounding his retirement rife.
His send-off in Madrid was particularly emotional, with Iga Swiatek admitting it made her cry, but we are simply not ready for the Roland Garros farewell he will be handed.
Rome gave their rendition just yesterday, and it too proved to be another touching departure.
Rome Open fans react to Rafael Nadal’s exit
Following his defeat to Hurbert Hurkacz, the Spaniard was forced to take a walk across the bridge that connects the stadium to the player’s lounge.
The suspended platform is very open, and allows fans to pile around and underneath it to catch a greater view of the players who cross it.
However, the streets were lined to see Nadal make what may well be his last-ever stroll along this fabled walkway.
Upon emerging from the arena, the hundreds of adoring Italian fans cheered, before erupting into chants for the legendary Spaniard.
He took his time, and drank it all in, before disappearing as the crowd died down.
It marked a historic sight, as the King of Clay was met with a monarchical send-off befitting a player of his stature and quality.
Rafael Nadal’s legacy goes far beyond tennis
Nadal, alongside Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, have transcended tennis with their greatness.
After all, not only are they three of the greatest to have ever played this sport, but they are also three of the greatest to have ever played any sport.
They have dominated tennis like few others ever will, and deserve all the acclaim they have got and will continue to get over the years.
Nadal, as the most dynamic and physical of the three, has done remarkably well to maintain his career until this point.
The 37-year-old could well have crumbled under the intensity of his play style, but has adapted through time to remain relevant and a threat for all he faces.
And even in defeat, as Hurkacz admittedly cruised to a win over Nadal, his greatness is recognised by the crowd wherever he goes.
This is just the start of what promises to be an emotional farewell tour for one of the greatest there will ever be.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
