Rafael Nadal's retirement from professional tennis at the Davis Cup marked the end of an era. With a glittering 23-year career and 22 Grand Slam wins, he leaves behind a remarkable sporting and personal legacy. In a heartfelt speech to fans in Malaga, Nadal expressed his peace of mind in knowing he had made a lasting impact.

Leaving a Multifaceted Legacy

Nadal emphasized that his legacy is not just about on-court achievements. "I leave with the peace of mind that I have left a legacy, which I really feel is not just a sporting one but a personal one," he said. His uncle Toni Nadal, who coached him from childhood, played a crucial role in his success. "The titles, the numbers are there, so people probably know that, but the way that I would like to be remembered more is like a good person, from a small village in Mallorca," Nadal continued.He highlighted the importance of having a great family that supported him throughout his career. "I had the luck that I had my uncle that was a tennis coach in my village when I was a very, very small kid, and a great family that supports me in every moment… I just want to be remembered as a good person, a kid that followed their dreams and achieved (even) more than what I had dreamed."

The Emotional Farewell

Nadal's final match at the Davis Cup was a bittersweet occasion. After losing to Botic van de Zandschulp 6-4, 6-4, Carlos Alcaraz fought back to force a doubles decider. Van de Zandschulp and Wesley Koolhof secured a 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/3) victory, bringing the curtain down on Nadal's career.World number three Alcaraz paid tribute to Nadal, saying, "His legacy is going to be eternal. He has been great for tennis, for the sport in general. It is difficult – at least for me – to feel that I should continue the legacy that he has left. It is difficult, almost impossible. I will just try to do my best. Right now it’s time to say great things about Rafa… It is just great to have had Rafa in tennis, in Spain and in my life."Nadal fought hard in his final match, with huge home support, but ultimately came up short. "He gave everything he had in the tank, all of his energy… it’s sad to see him go but we have to accept it," added Alcaraz.

Global Recognition and Admiration

Nadal's impact was felt not only in Spain but around the world. In Paris, where he won a record 14 French Open titles and earned the nickname the "King of Clay", his image was projected onto the night sky in front of the Eiffel Tower. Former world number one Boris Becker wrote on social media platform X, "I am crying as we speak… Rafael Nadal… What an absolute icon of sport period! There will never be another one like Rafa!"Spain's Davis Cup captain David Ferrer also paid tribute to Nadal, saying, "There are people who will be remembered for their achievements in life, others until the end of their days, and others eternally. You will be remembered eternally."Nadal thanked fans not only in Spain but around the world. His presence in tennis has left an indelible mark, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.