Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
Rafa NADAL, the greatest tennis player in Spain, received a farewell special at Sunday’s French Open. This Grand Slam was an event he won 14 times.
The Mallorcan superstar retired in November of last year, after a spectacular career.
He took his bow on Court Philippe-Chatrier in front of a packed 15,000 crowd including Murcia’s Carlos Alcaraz who wore a ‘Merci Rafa’ shirt.
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The video played on the screens featured all of his victories at Roland Garros.
Nadal’s great rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer joined him on the court at the emotional end of the ceremony.
Nadal, speaking in English and battling back tears, said: “Good evening everybody. This is difficult for me.”
“I’m not sure where to start, after having played here for 20 years.” To have enjoyed, suffered, won, lost… Above all, I’m emotional that I had the chance to play here.”
“It’s been an amazing story that started back in 2004, when I first came to Roland Garros. He said: “I was unable to walk at the time due to a foot injury. But that year, I climbed the top of court with crutches.”
“I always dreamed about coming back next year. In 2005, it was my first opportunity to play at the stadium. When I was 18, my first significant experience was when I played my childhood friend Richard Gasquet, my rival. Roland Garros was a new concept to me.”.
“I have seen and done everything in these 20 years.” I have had incredible rivals — like Andy, Novak and of course Roger — and many others who pushed me to my physical and mental limits.”
It would not be the same without these long-lasting rivalries, which have driven us all to strive for improvement every day.
“Roland Garros” is unique. “Roland Garros is unique. Not only is it a significant part of the history, but all those who tirelessly work, smiling, to make this event what it truly is.”
In the interview room, Nadal’s affection for his rivals was evident when, grinning broadly, he read a recent message from Andy Murray. Murray had been winding up Nadal after Real Madrid, his favorite team, had just lost to Arsenal in the Champions League.
“We were not in touch for a while so honestly, it took me like five seconds to realize what I was reading, because at the beginning, I said, ‘Okay, he’s such a nice guy. He is asking how I am doing, family”.
“After five minutes, I said: It’s always the British sense humour.”
