Jiri Lehecka, a Czech tennis standout, ended Rafael Nadal’s final appearance at the Mutua Madrid Open on Tuesday night. He overcame the ‘King of Clay’ by 7-5, 4-6 to get to the quarterfinals. This setback not only cost Nadal his 60th triumph at this renowned tournament and 100th ATP Masters 1000 QF, but it also devastated the hearts of millions of fans who had hoped to see this wonderful spectacle again on Madrid soil. Fans were in tears, as were Rafa’s family members! The stadium raised five banners commemorating his five victories in this event.
Crowds yelled his name and rose to their feet to give him a round of ovation for all of the memories he has given his Spanish tennis community to treasure for the rest of their life. What a moment! Maribel Nadal, Rafael Nadal’s sister, just posted a photo of that event to her Instagram account. She released a video footage of the ‘King’ waving back at his army as he exits through the alleys of his majestic castle. Nadal fought back tears as he spoke to the loud and emotional audience.
He reminisced on his “incredible” path and the “gift” of having a fulfilling profession for nearly two decades. Rafael Nadal explained these occasions, saying, “This is more important than any Grand Slam that I’ve won and will always be with me.” This is one of those days when it hits you hard. But life and my body have been sending me signs for quite some time.” He considers himself fortunate to have converted his passion into a career, as well as to have such a solid support system that constantly stands with him throughout difficult times.
Nadal’s wife, Maria Francisca Perrello, and his sister, Maria Isabel Nadal, burst into tears as the Gladiator theme music ‘Now We Are Free’ sounded through the stadium. Rafael Nadal considers it “normal” for his family members to cry. He explained that it is usual for members in his family to cry. Even if I had acted poorly, I imagine they would have cried. Because they have different feelings for me than the folks around me.” How did Rafael Nadal maintain control of his emotions in front of such adoring home fans?
“I have not yet finished” – Rafael Nadal feels he still has a long way to go this year
The 37-year-old tennis legend praised his family, friends, and fans for encouraging him to make the additional effort to make his comeback. He went on to say, “I have been blessed to have extremely suitable individuals by my side in all aspects, so that even in difficult times, I have always received the support of those around me. When you combine that with people’s love, you’re always motivated to attempt something new. “I’ve always done it, and here I am.” Every goodbye is emotional, but he doesn’t want to get carried away right now and ruin what’s coming up for him in his final season.
“I didn’t want to create a sea of tears because I hadn’t ended my journey with the racket in my hand. It has been an extremely emotional night. But this is not the moment to release all of my feelings and experiences. “I still have a long way to go, and I don’t want to lose all of my adrenaline,” said Rafael Nadal. He stated that he had come a “full circle” in Madrid and could not imagine being here at this age.
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