PrashantNews
The tennis legend who could win a Grand Slam final even after losing first two sets was defeated in his last match ironically without giving much fight.
Rafael Nadal, the 22 times Grand Slam champion, could not display the magic in his swansong before the home crowd at Malaga in Spain on Tuesday night in the Davis Cup match against Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp.
Rafa was defeated 6-4, 6-4 in the one of the most shocking defeats of his career spanning more than two decades. He dominated on the clay especially at French Open where he won 14 titles.
Many tennis lovers said they heard about the Dutch player only once or twice especially when he defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open.
Last month, Rafa announced he was ending his career at the Davis Cup and was selected by Captain David Ferrer for the single match. Though Nadal tried his best to stage a comeback but could not show the old spark for which he was famous for. With this Nadal’s 29-mtch winning streak in Davis Cup ended.
“Congratulations on a career that most won’t dare to dream of,” said Serena Williams. Teammate Alcraz said Nadal had been his inspiration.
Australian tennis great Rod Laver said watching Nadal playing tennis was a privilege. “Thank you for countless unforgettable moments and for setting a standard of excellence that will inspire generations to come,” said Laver.
Paying tribute to his long time arch rival, tennis great Roger Federer said Rafa made the whole tennis world proud during his epic career. “On clay, it felt like I was stepping into your backyard and you made me work harder. But facts remain that you beat me a lot,” Federer said.