Carlos Alcaraz paid a heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal after the tennis legend concluded his professional career at the Davis Cup. Nadal’s farewell match ended with a 6-4, 6-4 defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp in Spain’s quarterfinal clash against the Netherlands, marking the close of an extraordinary career filled with iconic achievements.
Nadal exits the sport as one of its greatest champions, with 22 Grand Slam titles, including an unprecedented 14 French Open crowns. His accolades also include two Australian Open titles, two Wimbledon wins, and four US Open trophies, alongside 92 ATP titles and an Olympic gold medal. Nadal’s career-long consistency and dominance earned him a revered place in tennis history.
Alcaraz, who grew up idolizing Nadal, took to Instagram to express his admiration. “Thanks to you, I have become a professional tennis player,” Alcaraz wrote. “It has been a blessing to live your career as a child for whom you were an idol and then as a teammate. The best possible ambassador who leaves an eternal legacy.”
The two Spaniards teamed up at the Paris Olympics and competed against each other in three professional matches, with Nadal leading their head-to-head record 2-1.
Reflecting on his career, Nadal addressed fans in Paris with gratitude, saying, “I am the one who should be thankful… You have always helped me win the next point and fight through tough moments.” He acknowledged the global support he received and shared his appreciation for his teammates, family, and team, emphasizing their roles in his journey.
While Nadal admitted the difficulty of accepting retirement, he expressed gratitude for his long career. “I feel super privileged. I’ve been able to turn my hobby into a career that lasted much longer than I imagined. I can only be grateful to life.”
Nadal’s legacy remains unparalleled, with achievements that include a record-breaking clay court reign, 36 ATP Masters titles, and contributions to Spain’s Davis Cup victories. As he steps away from professional tennis, his impact on the sport and his role as a global ambassador for perseverance and excellence will endure.
Rafael Nadal in 2024
Currently the world no.154, Rafael played his last match on the 19th of November when he surrendered to world no.80 Botic Van De Zandschulp 6-4 6-4 in the Rubber 1 of the Davis Cup (draw).
At present, during this year Nadal owns a 12-8 record. Rafael Nadal’s most significant result of the current year was reaching the final in Bastad.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
Now ranked no.3, Alcaraz played his last match on the 19th of November when he overcame world no.40 Tallon Griekspoor 7-6(0) 6-3 in the Rubber 2 of the Davis Cup (draw).
Presently, during this year Carlos has a 54-13 match record. The Spaniard has won 4 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. Carlos got to the final in Paris.
Carlos Alcaraz will play the world no.364 Gabi Adrian Boitan in the . In the past, they have never played each other so far in top tournaments.
Carlos clinched 4 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. Alcaraz was the finalist in Paris (Olympics).
Alcaraz won 17 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 1 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz squared off 3 times. Their head to head is 2-1 for Nadal. Before, the last time they locked horns, Carlos Alcaraz won 6-2 1-6 6-3 in the quarter in Madrid (Mutua Madrid Open) in May 2022.
In the video below you can watch the highlights.
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz |
| Embed from Getty Images |