Rafael Nadal's farewell: A legend bids adieu at Davis Cup

"I always hoped this day would never come," wrote esteemed tennis player Roger Federer on social media regarding the end of Rafael Nadal's career. This is the Swiss player's reaction to the recent decision by the 38-year-old to retire from sports.

Roger Federer, a former Swiss tennis player, commented on his great rival Rafael Nadal's decision to retire. The Spanish player announced that the Davis Cup tournament in November would be his farewell appearance.

"I always hoped this day would never come," wrote Federer on social media after Nadal announced his decision. The 43-year-old Swiss added, "Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It's been an absolute honour!"

On Thursday, the 38-year-old Nadal announced that after the Davis Cup finals, which will take place in Malaga from November 19-24, he will officially end his tennis career.

Hailing from Mallorca, the player has won 22 Grand Slam singles titles in his career, placing him second in history behind Serbia's Novak Djokovic, who has 23 such titles. Nadal surpasses Federer himself, who has amassed 20 Grand Slam titles.

The Spanish tennis player held the world ranking's top spot for 290 weeks. His dominance on the courts, especially on clay surfaces, has made him one of the most outstanding players in tennis history. Federer stated, "What a career, Rafa!"

Nadal and Federer created one of the most memorable rivalries in sports history on the court. They faced each other in 40 matches, with Nadal winning 24 of them. They last met on the court during the Laver Cup in 2022, when they played doubles together. It was Federer's last appearance as a professional tennis player.