Roger Federer immediately sends touching message to Rafael Nadal as tennis icon retires

Rafael Nadal has announced he will retire from professional tennis and has been inundated with tributes from his fellow stars, with Roger Federer among the most meaningful

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal finally revealing his retirement has prompted an outpouring of emotion, with Roger Federer leading the tributes.

The Spanish legend revealed he will retire after playing in the upcoming Davis Cup Finals next month. And Federer – who won the Davis Cup in 2014 – was among the first to laud his former rival's achievements with the curtain now coming down.

Nadal's illustrious career spanning two decades has firmly placed him among the tennis greats. The Daily Express reported how Federer, his long-time rival and fellow icon, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message following Thursday's announcement.

"What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come," wrote the Swiss superstar. "Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It's been an absolute honour."

Needless to say many other figures from the tennis world rallied to honour Nadal, with Coco Gauff expressing her admiration: "You are amazing! It's been so incredible to witness your greatness and work ethic and be able to learn from it. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter."

Roberto Bautista Agut is set to join Nadal at the Davis Cup Finals, and the world No. 61 shared his gratitude: "A thousand thanks to you, Rafa! Thanks for everything. Congratulations on such a brilliant career! Let's go for the best ending in Malaga."

The well wishes weren't exclusive to tennis talent, however, as football icon Cristiano Ronaldo chimed in: "Rafa, what an incredible race you've had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honour to witness your journey and to be able to call you a friend. Congrats on an amazing career! Enjoy your retirement."

Despite having several tense run-ins with Nadal, Nick Kyrgios also shared some heartfelt words for the retiring player on X (formerly Twitter): "We had our differences but you were one hell of a warrior. Best wishes and good luck with whatever comes next."

Nadal, 38, will hang up his racket as the second-most successful men's singles player in history, surpassed only by Novak Djokovic. His record at the French Open is unparalleled, with 14 titles and 112 victories out of 116 major matches at Roland Garros – a record that seems unbeatable.

The seasoned Spaniard also boasts four US Open titles, along with two crowns apiece at the Australian Open and Wimbledon. He's also a double Olympic gold medallist and has led Spain to five Davis Cup victories – the most recent being in 2019.

Nadal's illustrious career has been marred by a series of injuries in recent years, and he hasn't played a competitive match since the Paris Olympics. Nonetheless, he'll aim to end his career on a high note by once more clinching the Davis Cup with Spain in his swan song next month.

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