The curtains came down on Rafael Nadal’s career after the Spanish star’s defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp in the David Cup quarterfinals clash between Spain and the Netherlands.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion was given a farewell to remember. The on-court, post-match ceremony to honor Nadal featured video highlights from his storied career besides recorded tributes from tennis players like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams besides stars from other sports like David Beckham.
But what took the cake was Andy Murray’s tribute.
While praising Nadal, Murray highlighted how the Spaniard was a rare tennis player to throw his tennis racquet.
Rafael Nadal’s illustrious career came to an end with a defeat in a Davis Cup quarter-finals tie on Tuesday. (Reuters)
“We’ve also learned so much from you over the years about humility, hard work, and respect for everybody. You are probably the only tennis player ever to have never thrown a racket in anger, which is incredible,” Murray said in the video before cheekily adding: “However, this wasn’t the case when you would lose at PlayStation. I’ve seen Rafa throwing PlayStation controllers around hotel rooms all over the world when he and his close friend Juan Monaco would lose a late goal to me with his beloved Real Madrid at Pro Evolution Soccer.”
Watch: Murray’s tribute to Nadal
“I’ve seen Rafa throwing PlayStation controllers around hotel rooms all over the world” 🎮
A cute anecdote from @andy_murray about his good friend and PES rival @RafaelNadal #DavisCup #GraciasRafa #nadal pic.twitter.com/BexHOEP7EA
— Davis Cup (@DavisCup) November 20, 2024
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“I’ve always been a huge fan of yours and it has been incredible to watch you, to practise with you, and get the chance to compete against you for all these years since we first met as 13 and 14-year-old kids,” Murray said.
“The passion and intensity you played with, not just on the match court, but on the practise court was something I think all tennis players aspire to and what all tennis fans will remember you for. I’m sure your body is looking forward to a well earned rest. Enjoy retirement, mate.”
