It was a bittersweet moment for tennis fans around the globe on Thursday when tennis star Rafael Nadal decided to hang up his racket. A bittersweet moment for tennis fans around the globe. The 38-year-old Spaniard has been a relentless force on the court, known for his tenacity and fierce competitive spirit.

His legendary rivalry with Roger Federer, marked by epic clashes and mutual respect, captivated audiences and defined an era of tennis.  With a whooping 22 Grand Slam titles and a record of 14 French Open victories, he has created a legacy that will be hard to match.

As we say goodbye to this sporting titan, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit 10 unforgettable moments that defined his remarkable career—from soaring to world number one to Olympic glory.

The ‘Clay King’ is born (2005)

In 2005, 19-year-old Nadal took the tennis world by storm, clinching his first French Open title against Mariano Puerta. It was a match that signaled the arrival of a new clay-court king and set the stage for the next two decades of dominance.

Nadal’s powerful topspin and athleticism were on full display during the match, leaving fans in awe. It was the start of a journey that would see him become one of the greatest players in history.

A new world No. 1 (2008)

Nadal dethroned Roger Federer in 2008 to claim the World No. 1 spot for the first time. Federar was the undisputed World No. 1 for four years before this match. With this victory, Nadal established himself as a true contender, ready to challenge Federar for every title and thus started a great sporting rivalry.

His ascent to the top came after a stunning season where he won the French Open, Wimbledon, and the Olympic gold medal.

The epic Wimbledon battle (2008)

In what many consider the greatest match ever played, Nadal faced off against Federer in the 2008 Wimbledon final. After nearly five hours of intense play, Nadal emerged victorious, claiming his first Wimbledon title.

The match was a test of stamina, skill, and heart, with both players pushing each other to their limit. It wasn’t just about the trophy; it was a moment of sheer sportsmanship and rivalry that left fans breathless and set a new standard for tennis excellence.

Breaking Borg’s record (2012)

2012 saw Nadal secure his 7th French Open title, breaking Björn Borg’s record that had stood for nearly four decades. It reinforced his dominance on clay and solidified his legacy.

As he held the trophy aloft, it was clear that Nadal carving out a legacy that would inspire generations.

The career slam (2010)

At the 2010 US Open, Nadal completed his career Grand Slam, becoming the youngest player to win all four majors. This victory was a defining moment in his career, showcasing his versatility and skill across all surfaces.

This milestone proved that he could master any surface, setting him apart as one of the all-time greats in tennis history.

Golden in Beijing (2008)

Nadal’s gold medal at the 2008 Olympics was a testament to his versatility and determination. His victory in Beijing was a moment of national pride that resonated deeply with his fans. It added another prestigious accolade to his already impressive resume.

The comeback king (2013)

After battling injuries that threatened to derail his career, Nadal’s return in 2013 was spectacular. Winning his 8th French Open title that year, he proved that setbacks made him stronger.

His resilience shone through as he navigated a tough draw to reclaim his crown. This comeback further cemented his reputation as one of tennis’s toughest competitors.

8. La Decima (2017)

When Nadal won his 10th French Open title in 2017, the moment was magical. “La Decima” was a feat no one thought possible.

As he celebrated with the trophy in hand, the crowd erupted in applause, acknowledging his extraordinary achievement. It was a defining moment in his career, reinforcing his status as the greatest clay-court player of all time.

Tying Federer’s record (2020)

In 2020, Nadal tied Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam titles by winning yet another French Open. The excitement was palpable as he stood on the podium, a reminder of his relentless pursuit of excellence.

This victory reignited the age-old debate about who is the greatest of all time. As the cheers echoed around Roland Garros, it felt like a celebration of not just a win, but of a storied rivalry between him and Novak Djokovic that has defined an era.

The unforgettable rivalry (2005-2024)

Over his career, Nadal has engaged in some of the most memorable rivalries in tennis, with Federer and Djokovic. Each match against these legends brought a unique blend of drama and intensity that captivated fans and elevated the sport.

Their encounters pushed Nadal to new heights, as he battled to assert his place among the greats. This ongoing rivalry not only showcased his skill but also fostered respect and admiration among peers, further solidifying his legacy in the annals of tennis history.