Rafael Nadal bade an emotional farewell to the Madrid Open on Tuesday after crashing out in the fourth round at the Madrid Open.
The 37-year-old 22-time Grand Slam singles champion—winner of a record five Madrid Open titles—bowed out 7-5, 6-4 to the 30th-seeded Czech Lehecka.
In just over two hours, a feisty Lehecka thwarted Nadal’s hopes of reaching his 100th Masters 1000 quarterfinal after a fairytale run in only his second tournament since January as the Spaniard struggled with injury. Nadal had said he expects to retire after the 2024 season.
As chants of “Rafa, Rafa, Rafa” echoed around, the five-time champion in Madrid made a farewell speech: “I’m happy. It was a very special week for me, very positive in every way. I was able to play again on a court that has given me a lot, also on an emotional level.”
“It has been unforgettable, and I can only say ‘thank you’. It has been an incredible journey. It’s very difficult, but life and my body have been sending signals to me for a long time. “I have been fortunate to turn my passion into my job. I am privileged,” he said.
It’s a difficult day, but my body is giving me a signal that I should stop,” the 37-year-old said after his defeat to Jiri Lehecka at the Mutua Madrid Open. “My dream was to finish here on court
Rafael Nadal
“It’s amazing. For me, sharing the court with such a legendary player is a dream come true. I always wished to have this happen. I’m very grateful to achieve such a big moment,” Lehecka said.
The organisers honoured him with a trophy and unfurled banners, paying tribute to his five Madrid titles.
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