Rafael Nadal has officially announced that he will retire at the end of the 2024 season, eliciting an emotional response from the tennis community. The announcement has prompted heartfelt tributes from several notable players, including Coco Gauff, Jannik Sinner, and Andy Roddick.

On Thursday, October 10, Nadal revealed his plans to conclude his illustrious career after representing Spain at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, set to begin on November 19. In an emotional video shared on social media, the 38-year-old expressed that it was the “appropriate” time to end his storied career.

Nadal reassured fans that he is at peace with his decision, reflecting on a journey that has surpassed his wildest dreams in terms of success and achievement. His announcement marks the end of an era in tennis, as he leaves behind a legacy that has inspired countless players and fans around the world.

“In this life, everything has a beginning and an end. And I think it’s the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have ever imagined,” he added.

“Everything I have experienced has been a dream come true. I leave with the absolute peace of mind of having given my best, of having made an effort in every way I can only end by saying thanks to all and see you soon,” he added.

Tributes for Rafael Nadal flooded in from the tennis community, with Coco Gauff being among the first to honor the 22-time Grand Slam champion for his greatness and wish him well for the future.

“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 the next chapter,” Gauff commented.

“Thank you for everything you have done for this sport. You will be missed in tournaments,” Garcia wrote (Translated from Spanish).

Coco Gauff and Caroline Garcia’s comments on the Spaniard’s post

Andy Roddick extended his gratitude to the 38-year-old for the unforgettable “memories” he created throughout his career.

“Great Rafa. @RafaelNadal Thanks for all the memories………. Thanks friend,” Roddick posted on X (Translated from Spanish).

Ons Jabeur and Paula Badosa revisited their cherished memories with the former World No. 1, thanking him for the inspiration he provided.

“Thank you @RafaelNadal for inspiring me and all of us ❤️🙏 You will be missed 😢❤️,” Jabeur posted.

“Gracias Rafa,” Badosa wrote.

Jannik Sinner, while saddened by the “tough news,” expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to get to know Nadal on a personal level.

“Well, it’s tough news for, I think, all the tennis world, and not only the tennis world. What I can say, I was very lucky to get to know him also, like, you know, as a person, and he’s an unbelievable person,” Sinner said in his press conference at the Shanghai Masters.

Sinner’s coach Darren Cahill and Coco Gauff’s former coach Brad Gilbert hailed the 22-time Grand Slam champion for being a role model for younger generations with his competitive spirit and kindness.

“Possessed every quality in an athlete that you want for your own kids to try & emulate. Kindness, respect, hard-working, loyal, generous, belief & a willingness to fight for every single point. A role model. An inspiration to every generation & all-time legend. Well done, Rafa 👏,” Cahill commented.”Vamos-Rafa @RafaelNadal is everything you want in a athlete tennis 🎾 player person, your competitive spirit and class on the courts simply off the charts 📊 it’s has been absolutely awesome 👏 to watch you your entire career 👍💪👌😎👊,” Gilbert commented.

Katie Boulter voiced her reluctance to accept the news of Nadal’s impending retirement, while Nick Kyrgios set aside his differences with the “warrior” to wish him well for the future.

“Nope, I/we refuse this application to retire,” Boulter wrote.

“We had our differences but you were one hell of a warrior. Best wishes and goodluck with whatever comes next,” Kyrgios posted.

Matteo Berrettini, Joao Sousa and Jakub Mensik also paid heartfelt tributes to the “legend.”

Roger Federer also shared a touching message for his arch-rival and close friend Rafael Nadal, expressing his gratitude for the “unforgettable memories.”