‘You Kept Tennis Alive’: Indian Cricket Great Pens Thoughtful Note for Nadal as King of Clay Retires

One of tennis' greatest icons has ended his professional career. Rafael Nadal, a multi-time Grand Slam winner, has announced his retirement from professional tennis. Following Roger Federer, another of the Big Three has retired from competitive tennis, leaving only one active player. It marks the end of an era for the Spaniard, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles and received numerous other honors. As Rafa announces his retirement, the sporting community comes together to pay tribute as Nadal concludes a legendary career in professional tennis. One of India's cricket greats also expressed his thoughts on the retiring Spaniard.

Also Read: Rafael Nadal gave his all until he simply couldn’t anymore and had to retire

Indian Cricket Legend Pays Homage to the Retiring Rafael Nadal

As Rafael Nadal concludes his illustrious career in professional tennis, several entities from various sports have stepped forward to congratulate the 38-year-old tennis player. Rafa was nearly untouchable on clay, and his dominance earned him 14 French Open titles. As he steps down, Ravi Shastri pays tribute to one of Tennis' greatest players and the 'King of Clay'.

"A Legend in your Lifetime. You took the physical aspect of the sport to another level. You punctured a lot of Tennis balls with the way you bludgeoned it. You kept tennis alive big time. Thank you for all the entertainment you provided in your own inimitable way. Go well Champion. Enjoy the one last Hurrahh," Ravi Shastri tweeted on 'X' [Formerly Twitter].

Also Read: Rafael Nadal’s career timeline is filled with titles, rivalries and injuries

Rafael Nadal made his retirement announcement on social media, revealing that he will step down from competitive action after competing in the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga. The Spaniard's playing longevity was in doubt after he withdrew from the Laver Cup in Berlin, where Roger Federer played his farewell match. He also pulled himself out from the US Open, which led to him missing out on three of the four Grand Slam events which took place in 2024.