UK (Commonwealth) _Following their last encounter as professionals, Rafael Nadal remarked that he “would not be the player he is today” and reflected on an “amazing rivalry” with Novak Djokovic.
Nadal, 38, declared earlier this month that he will stop his tennis career at the end of the current campaign. Djokovic of Serbia defeated the Spaniard 6-2 7-6 (7-5) in their exhibition match for third place at the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia.
As part of a post-match presentation in Riyadh, Nadal received a golden tennis racquet, and the two ended the encounter with a tender hug at the net. “I want to express my gratitude for all of the times we have spent together on the court because we have had an incredible rivalry. Thank you very much for all of the moments we had on the court throughout our careers,” Nadal said in a court interview.
I appreciate you pushing me to reach new heights because, without it, I doubt I would be the player I am now. At the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga next month, Rafael Nadal will make his farewell appearance for Spain.
Nadal, having won a record 14 French Open titles and 22 Grand Slams overall, continued, “I will miss almost everything.” Being able to play competitively and in some of the world’s greatest venues for nearly two decades has been a dream come true.
I was able to fulfill my dream of becoming a successful professional tennis player. The love and support I’ve received from everyone is so much appreciated.With 24 Grand Slam victories, Djokovic is the only man to surpass Rafael Nadal’s 22-title total. Prior to Saturday’s match, the defending Olympic champion has won 31 of their 60 meetings on the ATP Tour and Grand Slam.
“I have the utmost respect for you – a brilliant athlete and an incredible person,” he said to Nadal following the match. I hope we get the chance to sit on the beach somewhere, have a drink, and think about life while discussing something else because the rivalry has been amazing and quite intense.To have you in the court has been an amazing honor and pleasure. We’ve played so many games over so many years, so it’s an emotional day and moment.
I’ll end by expressing my sincere gratitude to you on behalf of the entire tennis community. An amazing legacy has been left by you. In Saturday’s final, world number one Jannik Sinner defeated Carlos Alcaraz of Spain to win $6 million (about £4.5 million) in first prize.
Sinner, 23, of Italy, lost the opening set in a tiebreak but bounced back to defeat
During the first exhibition event in Saudi Arabia, Novak Djokovic, a lifelong rival, upset Rafael Nadal 6-2, 7-6 (7-5) to secure third place. After 90 amusing minutes on the court, the two gave each other a heartfelt embrace near the net.
Nadal later received a golden tennis racquet in recognition of his participation in the Saudi event and his overall influence on the game. Rafael Nadal honors Novak Djokovic with a moving tribute.
In an absolutely incredible rivalry, the Serb’s Olympic victory boosted his advantage to 31-29 after 60 meetings (excluding exhibitions) and all four major finals.
A final match at the Six Kings Slam felt almost like a bonus match between the two, a rivalry that has influenced tennis and sport in general. After the match, Nadal was eager to express his gratitude to Djokovic for the significant influence he has had on his own career.
“I have some things to say to Novak and his group. Thank you. For everything. Everything you said today and every second we spent together on the court. The rivalry has been incredible.
You personally assisted me in pushing myself throughout the course of nearly 15 years. In his characteristically modest manner, Nadal stated, “Without that, I wouldn’t be the player I am today.” To you and your crew, congratulations on your incredible career and all of your titles. The Spaniard said, “I hope you have the best future.”
I have some things to say to Novak and his group. Thank you. For everything. Everything you said today and every second we spent together on the court. The rivalry has been incredible. From a personal standpoint, you
A fresh rivalry begins
A fresh and thrilling chapter between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner is beginning as the storied rivalry between Djokovic and Nadal approaches its twilight.
