"The King of Tennis" ends his legendary career .. and the world's stars comment

After winning 22 Grand Slam singles titles, the Spaniard Rafael Nadal announced on Thursday that he has decided to end his professional tennis career.

Nadal said that the decision will take effect after the Davis Cup final.

The 38-year-old player, who has won 14 French Open titles, said in a video clip: "I have had difficult years, especially the last two."

"Of course, this is a very difficult decision for myself, but it is the right time to close the curtain on my career."

"I am very excited that the last tournament I will participate in will be the Davis Cup, where I represent my country. I will complete my career because one of the first moments of joy in my career was in the final in Seville in 2004."

The Davis Cup knockout stages will be held from November 19 to 24.

He missed the French Open in 2023 and lost in the first round to German Alexander Zverev this year.

Nadal won his last Roland Garros title in 2022 and has a record of 112 wins and just four defeats on the Parisian clay.

Swiss tennis player Roger Federer commented on Nadal's retirement, saying: "It has been an absolute honour, thank you for the unforgettable memories."

Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo said: "Rafael, what an incredible career! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honour to witness your journey and to call you my friend. Congratulations on your incredible career and enjoy your retirement."

French football star Kylian Mbappe wrote: "Congratulations on your career Rafael, enjoy your retirement. You will always be a legend."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said: "Rafael Nadal is also a source of pride for our country and an example of the fundamental values ​​of sport, with which he has shaped his entire exceptional career."

Italian tennis player and world number one Jannik Sinner also commented on Nadal's announcement, saying: "I am lucky to have met him, he is a great person," adding: "He taught us lessons on how to behave on the court, how to manage situations, how to stay humble and not change to achieve success, and how to choose the right people around you."

Nadal's career has been hampered by injuries, as he missed the French Open in 2023 and lost in the first round to Germany's Alexander Zverev this year.

Nadal won his last title at Roland Garros in 2022, and has an impressive record of 112 wins and just four losses at the Parisian clay-court tournament.