Jannik Sinner posted a heartfelt message to Rafael Nadal with the Spaniard set to retire from professional tennis.
On Thursday, the 38-year-old posted an emotional video on X to make the dreaded announcement regarding the end of his illustrious career.
Nadal is set to bid farewell to the sport following the conclusion of November’s Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.
There have been plenty of tributes for Nadal since he told the world about his retirement, and the current World number one’s message was a touching one.
Rafael Nadal announced he would stop playing tennis after admitting he could no longer play without any pain or limitations.
The Spaniard has suffered plenty of injuries throughout his career, and he always found a way to bounce back and return to his best form.
But the long term hip injury suffered in January 2023, proved a step too far for him as he struggled to stay fit and find his best tennis in 2024.
After Nadal announced his retirement, Sinner took to social media platform X and posted a series of photos in which he trained alongside Nadal. They practiced together ahead of the Brisbane International at the beginning of 2021.
“Thank you @RafaelNadal for everything you have given to the sport,” the Italian wrote. “To have the chance to spend a few weeks training with you a few years ago is something I’ll never forget.
“To watch you work as an athlete but also get to know you as a person off the court was even more special.
“A true legend of the game who paved the way and taught so many of us how to be as a player and as a person. You will be missed on the tour!”
Nadal played Sinner three times during his career and won each of those meetings that took place over 2020 and 2021.
Two of those matchups took place at the French Open, which Nadal won without dropping a set.
Their other encounter came at the Rome Masters, and Nadal claimed a 7-5, 6-4 win before going on to win the title.
Since then Sinner has gone on to become a two-time Grand Slam champion and claim the top spot in the ATP rankings.
