Rafa Nadal’s emotional goodbye at the Madrid Open

us.hola.com:

Rafael Nadal is closing a significant part of his life. The beloved tennis player lost against Jiri Lehecka in the Madrid Open, playing in what may likely be his last match in the Spanish tournament.

Following the match, Nadal shared some words with the audience, saying goodbye and thanking them for their support. Rafa Nadal is supported by his family at his first Madrid Open matchCoco Gauff talks about playing with Rafa NadalA post shared by #Vamos por Movistar Plus+ (@vamos)Nadal’s touching speech was recorded and shared on social media, showing him emotional as he addressed the crowds and said his goodbyes. “This is a difficult day when it arrives, but it’s a reality.

My body and my life had been sending me signs for some time,” he said in Spanish. Nadal spoke as people in the crowds erupted in cheers, at time making him laugh, and at times making him emotional. “I was able to say goodbye playing on this court, one of the most emotional ones for me.

Madrid at times has been more important to me than a Grand Slam. The memories here will stay with me forever.”Still, despite the emotional tone of his speech, Nadal made it clear that he wasn’t retiring. “I don’t want to thank my family or my team because I’m not retiring.