Rafael Nadal defeated Norwegian Casper Ruud 7-6(7) and 6-4 in an exhibition match at a City Bullring of Mexico with more than 30,000 spectators in attendance as he bid farewell to Mexico, where he first found success at the age of 18.
The Acapulco Open, which Nadal won for the fourth time in his career in 2022, was where the Spaniard won his first major title in 2005. Before the match, Nadal stated that this match might be his last professional game in Mexico.
“It is an unforgettable feeling to live in such an environment in Mexico. I can only say thank you for the unconditional support, it is a country that has treated me like one more Mexican. It is difficult for me to say goodbye to you,” said Nadal.
This was the last match of a tour that brought Rafael Nadal and Casper Ruud to 6 different countries in America.
Rafael Nadal in 2022
Currently the world no.2, Rafael played his last match on the 17th of November when he defeated world no.3 Casper Ruud 7-5 7-5 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
Until now, during this year Nadal owns an overall 39-8 win-loss record. Nadal clinched 4 titles in 2022 in Melbourne, Australian Open, Acapulco and French Open. Nadal was the runner-up in Indian Wells.
Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic |
| Embed from Getty Images |
