Recently, “King of Clay” Rafael Nadal shared: “This is a difficult decision and I have thought a lot about it. But life always has a beginning and an end. I feel this is the right time to close a career that has been longer and more successful than I ever dreamed of.”

Rafael Nadal is a tennis player who has spent 209 weeks as world number 1 and has won a total of 22 Grand Slam titles. He is also known as the “King of Clay” and holds the record of 14 French Open titles. In addition, the Spanish tennis player also won the 2008 Olympic gold medal.

But at 38, Rafael Nadal has lost his form and is constantly struggling with injuries. He is expected to officially hang up his racket after the Davis Cup in November.

He also expressed: “I am very lucky for the great experiences I have had with tennis. I want to thank this sport, my colleagues and especially my great opponents. I have had many precious moments with them and those memories will stay with me for life.”

After Rafael Nadal announced his retirement, Cristiano Ronaldo expressed his deep feelings: “Rafa! You have had an amazing career. Your passion, dedication and talent have inspired millions of people around the world. It has been an honor to follow your journey and to call you a friend. Congratulations on your wonderful career and enjoy your retirement!”

Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafael Nadal not only admire each other, they are also close friends and meet regularly.

In addition to Cristiano Ronaldo, Toni Kroos, a former Real Madrid player who just retired after Euro 2024, also sent his gratitude to Rafael Nadal. The former German player called Rafael Nadal “an example not only in sports but also in life”.