Rafael Nadal announced on Thursday that he will retire from tennis after the Davis Cup Finals, with a host of stars from the world of sport paying tribute to the Spanish icon

Roger Federer sent a touching message to Rafael Nadal on social media(Image: (Image: GETTY))

Tennis legend Roger Federer took to social media with a heartfelt tribute after Rafael Nadal, one of the sport’s all-time greats, announced his retirement. “What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come,” Federer posted on Instagram.

“Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honor.”

Nadal is preparing to bid farewell following next month’s Davis Cup Finals. His remarkable two-decade career has earned him a spot among the greatest in the game.

Federer, his long-time rival and fellow icon, shared a poignant note on Instagram. Coco Gauff also joined the chorus of admiration, expressing on social media.

She wrote: “You are amazing! It’s been so incredible to witness your greatness and work ethic and be able to learn from it. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter.”

Nadal will bow out after representing Spain at the Davis Cup Finals next month (Image: (Image: GETTY))

Roberto Bautista Agut, set to team up with Nadal at the Davis Cup Finals, also paid homage online: “A thousand thanks to you, Rafa! Thanks for everything. Congratulations on such a brilliant career! Let’s go for the best ending in Malaga.”

“A thousand thanks to you, Rafa! Thanks for everything. Congratulations on such a brilliant career! Let’s go for the best ending in Malaga,” Roberto Bautista Agut posted, looking forward to their final collaboration.

Even soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo chimed in with accolades, saying: “Rafa, what an incredible race you’ve had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world.

“It has been an honour to witness your journey and to be able to call you a friend. Congrats on an amazing career! Enjoy your retirement.”

Nick Kyrgios, despite having had several disagreements with Nadal, also expressed his admiration for the retiring player on X (formerly Twitter): “We had our differences but you were one hell of a warrior. Best wishes and good luck with whatever comes next.”

Nadal will retire as the second-most successful men’s singles player in history, surpassed only by Novak Djokovic. His record includes 14 French Open victories, winning 112 out of his 116 major matches at Roland Garros – a record that is unlikely to be broken.

The seasoned Spanish player is also a four-time U.S. Open champion and has won both the Australian Open and Wimbledon twice. He is a two-time Olympic gold medallist and has contributed to Spain’s five Davis Cup titles, the most recent being in 2019.

In recent years, Nadal’s career has been plagued by a series of injuries, and he hasn’t played a competitive match since the Olympics. However, he hopes to end his career on a high note by winning the Davis Cup with Spain in his final tournament next month.