the world of sport salutes an “icon” and a “legend” with an “incomparable legacy”

The announcement, Thursday, October 10, of the upcoming retirement of Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal, 38, provoked a wave of reactions in the world of sport and beyond, symbol of the planetary aura of the twenty-year-old Mallorcan. -two Grand Slam titles.

“I am here to tell you that I am leaving professional tennis”declared Nadal in a video posted on his X account. In fact, he will put away his rackets after the Davis Cup final with Spain, scheduled for November 19 to 24 in Malaga.

“What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your exploits in the game we love. It was an absolute honor”commented the Swiss Roger Federer, eternal rival and friend of the Spaniard.

On Instagram, Serbian Novak Djokovic expressed “respect” that he has for « Rafa ». “You inspired millions of children to take up tennis” and “your tenacity, dedication and fighting spirit will be taught for decades to come”he greeted. “Your legacy will live forever” he added, calling Rafael Nadal “ icon of tennis and sport in general. » “Thank you for pushing me to my limits so many times in our rivalry”wrote the Serbian again in his message.

Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz, for his part, declared on X: “From the child who watched you on television and dreamed of becoming a tennis player to the one who had the immense privilege of playing alongside you at Roland Garros and representing Spain at the Olympic Games! Thank you very much for being an example at all levels, your legacy is unparalleled! »

“It’s not easy to say goodbye…”

Cristiano Ronaldo, the legend of Real Madrid, paid tribute to the “ dedication “to the « passion » and to the“incredible talent” by Rafael Nadal.

“You are an example as a player and as a person. Enjoy your retirement, you will always be a legend”reacted the captain of the French football team, Kylian Mbappé.

“It’s not easy to say goodbye to you Rafa… Thank you for your immense career and for the twenty years of emotions that have written the history of tennissaid the president of the Organizing Committee for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Tony Estanguet. Thank you also for your presence at Paris 2024 this summer, it was a great honor to have you among us. »

“There are no words to define what you have given to our sport, our country and our society”estimated former Spanish tennis player Pablo Andujar.

“Thank you so much for everything you have given us thanks to your efforts and sacrifices over so many years”also greeted former Spanish cyclist Alberto Contador on X.