Nadal says emotional farewell to Madrid fans

There was barely a dry eye in the house as Rafael Nadal said farewell to fans at the Mutua Madrid Open, the ATP Masters 1000 that he won five times during his illustrious career.

After losing his fourth-round match to Jiri Lehecka shortly after midnight under a closed roof on the Caja Magica – which only amplified the passionate roars of Spanish fans during the two-hour battle – Nadal was feted with five banners marking the titles he won during a 10-year span between 2008-17 and a special trophy from tournament director Felicano Lopez.

But it was perhaps the warm applause of his adoring fans – and the tears shed by family members in his players’ box – that meant the most to the 37-year-old, 36-time ATP Masters 1000 champion.

“It’s been a very special week for me, very positive in many ways, both personally and for my tennis,” Nadal said on court. “I had the chance to play again on court. A few weeks ago, two days before Barcelona, I didn’t know if I would compete in an official match again and I’ve now played two weeks. It’s been unforgettable.

“The only thing I can say is ‘thank you’. It’s been an incredible journey that started when I was little. I came to Madrid for the first time in 2003, when the tournament was played indoors. The first time I came here feeling competitive was in 2005. It was one of the most exciting wins of my career, still indoors. Ever since, the support has been unconditional from everyone. I cannot thank you enough.”

Nadal, who was trying to advance to his 100th ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final, reflected on the span of his career, which was brought into sharp focus when looking up at the unfurled banners marking his five titles in 2008, ’10, ’13-’14 and ’17.

“Looking at the pictures [on the banners], some of them seem like they were a lifetime ago,” said the Spaniard who spent 209 weeks at No. 1 in the PIF ATP Rankings during his career. “All I can do is thank everyone who has helped me in my career. Even though it’s not over, this is the last time I’ll be in Madrid. You have given me a gift for the last 21 years that’s more significant than any Grand Slam I have won. The emotions of playing in Madrid, in front of the Spanish fans, is something that will stay with me forever.

“I’ve been lucky enough to be able to do a hobby as my job, and to do it exceptionally well. I feel so lucky to have had all these experiences. I couldn’t ask for more. I hope I’ve set a positive example for the new generations. That’s the most important thing. Titles and sporting moments are exciting.”

Nadal said he was thankful for the memories the sport – and fans – had given him over the years. He now turns his focus to next week’s Masters 1000 in Rome, Roland Garros (if he believes his body will withstand the rigours of five-set tennis), the Olympics (where he has teased a doubles run with Carlos Alcaraz) and the Laver Cup.

“Sport generates excitement and emotion. I have experienced it as a fan,” he said. “From what I can see, I hope that I’ve created excitement and emotion for all of you. The only thing I can say is ‘thank you’. That’s all I can say. That’s how I feel. It was one of those days that are difficult when they arrive. I think that life and my body have been sending me messages for some time that this day had to come.

“I’ve been lucky to do it at one of the places that has been the most emotional for me. Thank you. I’d like to thank Feli, Gerard and Jon, and everyone who made it possible for the tournament to be played in Madrid. It’s amazing for all the Spanish players and I’m sure the next generations will continue to enjoy the atmosphere here. Thank you so much everyone for helping me have this moment”.

Rafa, the jokester 🤣

“This is a joke. Next year, I am coming back.” @MutuaMadridOpen | #MMOPEN | @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/NHwHxtTACA

— ATP Tour (@atptour) April 30, 2024