Spanish champion Rafael Nadal has officially retired from professional tennis.
He played his last match which he lost to Botic van de Zandschulp during the quarter finals of the Davis Cup in Malaga, Spain, on Tuesday.
The 22-time Grand Slam winner announced his retirement last month, which he attributed to some playing limitations following a hip injury.
During a heartfelt speech, the 38-year-old legend reflected on his legacy.
“I lost my first match in the Davis Cup, and I lost my last one.
So, we close the circle.
I leave with the peace of mind that I have left a legacy which I really feel is not just a sporting one, but a personal one.
I understand that the love I have received, if it were just for what happened on the court, would not be the same.
I just want to be remembered as a good person, a kid that followed their dreams and achieved more than what I had dreamed,” said Nadal.
The sports fraternity extended tributes to the King of Clay with farewell messages from NBA icon Lebron James and colleagues in tennis, Carloz Alcaraz and Olympic champion Novak Djokovic.
Nadal also gave credit to those who were instrumental in his journey, particularly his uncle, Toni Nadal who started coaching him from a tender age.
The Spaniard star displayed remarkable strength and will to push himself beyond even when faced with difficulties.
He will be remembered for his excellence in the sport including dominating the French Open that led to 14 title wins, 92 ATP singles victories and two Olympic gold medals in singles and doubles amongst others.
