WATCH: Rafael Nadal signs his mural in player hotel at Malaga

Rafael Nadal expressed a sense of fulfillment as he concluded his illustrious tennis career, emphasizing that he had given his all to the sport. The Ultimate King of clay courts, Nadal concluded his 23-year journey on the court by proudly representing Spain at the Davis Cup in Malaga. 

Similar to his eternal rival Roger Federer, Nadal's retirement comes not from his desire but rather as a natural outcome of his body's challenges.

Rafael Nadal Retires from Tennis 

On Tuesday, November 19, the tennis legend concluded his professional career in a heartfelt final match at his home in Málaga, surrounded by his crowd. In his last singles appearances, he represented Spain in the Davis Cup Finals quarter-finals against the Netherlands. Spain fell short with a 2-1 loss in the tie.

Nadal kept on fighting till the last point of his last match and ultimately had to face a close 4-6,4-6 defeat. He signed off with teary eyes which pulled the emotional strings of the home crowd and his fans. Rafael Nadal stands as one of the most accomplished tennis players in history, having fundamentally transformed the sport. 

With 22 Grand Slam men’s singles titles, Nadal's dominance is highlighted by his unparalleled 14 French Open victories, the most by any player at a single Grand Slam event. His collection also boasts four USOpen titles and two Australian Open titles. Moreover, Nadal secured the Career Grand Slam at the age of 24, making him the youngest man in the Open Era to accomplish this remarkable feat.

"The titles, the numbers, they’re there, and people probably know that. What I’d like to be remembered for more is as a good person from a small village in Mallorca." Nadal said. "In some ways, it’s fitting that this was my last match, I lost my first match in the Davis Cup, and I’ve lost my last. So, we close the circle" he added.

"A lot of people try their best every single day. I’ve been very lucky. I just want to be remembered as a good person and as a kid who followed his dreams and achieved more than I ever dreamed of." Nadal said.

Nadal signed his Mural 

Rafael Nadal signed his mural while he was on his way to bid farewell to the hotel. Fans caught him on their cameras signing his mural on the hotel walls. He was in a happy mood, waving at his fans. 

Rafa signing his mural at the player hotel in Malaga today before his departure. #GraciasRafa#RafaelNadal𓃵pic.twitter.com/a2E6FdofNC

— Sandy (@nycsandygirl) November 21, 2024