Tears flowed at the Palacio de Deportes Martín Carpena in Malaga, where Rafael Nadal played the last match of his career in the Davis Cup quarter-final against the Netherlands. A bitter taste defeat for Spain, but also an emotional moment for the fans who came to greet one of the greatest champions in the history of Tennis.
“It was a lot of emotion, especially during the farewells and the final speech,” confides Antoine Gruson, a Belgian spectator. “My mother cried, and I had red eyes too. For Rafa, it was really very strong. »
On the side of the Spanish supporters, feelings were mixed. “ We wanted Spain to win, but witnessing this unique moment, the farewell of an idol like Rafa, is unforgettable,” explains Txema Lopez. For him, Nadal remains “an icon, influential on a sporting and personal level, and he will always remain linked to the world of sport. »
Even Dutch supporters, delighted to see their team advance, welcomed the departure of a monument. “It’s a shame that he’s stopping, but it’s a good thing for him to take time for his family », Estimates Tina De Bruin.
READ ALSO. Tennis. “Eternal”, “legend”… Rafael Nadal hailed one last time by the Spanish press
Second member of the “Big 3” to bow out after Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal leaves the courts “serene”, but leaves a huge void. His mark will remain engraved forever.
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