Rafael Nadal has retired from professional tennis at the age of 38, as one of the second-most successful men’s singles players of all time, behind only long-time rival Novak Djokovic.

Nadal has been instrumental with determination and relentless energy on the court. Nadal will represent Spain in his final appearance at next month’s Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.

Over the past two seasons, Nadal has struggled with injuries, limiting his time on the court and foreshadowing the inevitable conclusion to his career. The tennis world first caught a glimpse of his potential retirement plans when he suggested last year that he would step away at the close of the 2024 season.

Now, that moment has arrived. In a video message released on Thursday, Nadal said, “I am here to let you know I am retiring from professional tennis.”

As tennis bids farewell to one of its greatest champions, Rafael Nadal’s impact on the sport will be remembered for decades to come.

Roger Federer, a Swiss former tennis player, said that Nadal has been able to achieve a number of accolades due to his determination, work ethic, and sportsmanship.

“Nadal has been able to achieve a number of accolades due to his determination, work ethic, and sportsmanship, and thus he has become an inspiration to many people,” Federer said.

Federer said that his hope for this day when Nadal is to retire had never come.

“What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour,” Federer said.

Nadal retires as a symbol of greatness, and thus he will forever be adored in the game of tennis. Nadal is also a four-time US Open champion and has won both the Australian Open and Wimbledon twice. He also won Olympic singles and doubles gold and helped Spain to four Davis Cup titles, most recently in 2019.