Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, like the rest of the tennis world, have had their say on the retirement announcement of “King of Clay” Rafael Nadal.

Rafael Nadal officially announced his retirement from tennis on October 10, revealing that the 2024 Davis Cup Finals will be the last tournament of his career.

Many players currently competing on the ATP Tour grew up watching the Spaniard, and over the years, many have explained how Nadal inspired them. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are among them, and it’s no surprise that the two players currently at the top of the ATP rankings have paid tribute to the retiring legend.

Early in his tennis career, Sinner spent a few weeks at the Rafa Nadal Academy, learning from the 22-time Grand Slam champion himself. He immediately recalled that experience when sharing a message of gratitude to Nadal.

“Thank you Rafael Nadal for everything you have given to this sport. Having the opportunity to spend a few weeks training with you a few years ago is something I will never forget.”

“To see him work as an athlete but also get to know him as a person off the court was even more special. A true legend of tennis who paved the way and taught so many of us how to be a player and a person. He will be greatly missed on tour!”

Originally from Spain, Carlos Alcaraz has often watched his compatriot achieve success and looked up to him as an inspiration. While he once said his idol was Roger Federer early in his career, he has now explained many times why Nadal is also an integral part of his game.

In his message, the 21-year-old shared that since he was a child, he watched Nadal on television and dreamed of becoming a tennis player, until he had the opportunity to stand next to Nadal on the tennis court when both represented Spain at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“From the kid who watched you on TV and dreamed of becoming a tennis player, to the one who had the priceless gift of playing with you at Roland Garros, representing Spain at the Olympics!”

Alcaraz could be playing alongside Nadal in his final Davis Cup tennis match. Nadal’s best-case scenario would be if it were a final decider and a doubles match, with Alcaraz alongside him. While the pair are a long way from that, the youngster already knows he will miss his idol after he retires.

“Thank you so much for being such a role model at every level, your legacy is irreplaceable! I have enjoyed watching you play and I will miss you when you leave after the Davis Cup, Rafa!”, Alcaraz added.