Stefanos Tsitsipas has posted an emotional tribute to Rafael Nadal following the tennis icon’s decision to retire. The Greek star remembers hanging a picture of Nadal on his bedroom wall to help him emulate his idol’s journey.
Having battled fitness issues for the best part of 18 months, Nadal will hang up his racket and call time on a glittering tennis career after November’s Davis Cup. The 38-year-old has been eulogised by some of his biggest rivals.
But perhaps the most heartfelt message has come from world No. 12 Tsitsipas. Writing on Instagram, the 26-year-old praised Nadal’s ‘resilience’, ‘humility’ and ‘courage’ in becoming one of the greatest tennis players of all-time.
Tsitsipas said: “As I hung the poster of Rafael Nadal on my wall, it wasn’t just a picture… but a reminder that dreams can take flight. I spent countless nights dreaming of emulating his legacy, driven by his relentless spirit and unmatched passion for the game.
Today,, as he steps away from the court, I can’t help but reflect on the surreal moment I faced him, a dream transformed into reality. His journey taught me that greatness isn’t just about victories; it’s about resilience, humility, and the courage to chase your dreams against all odds.
“Ultimately, Rafa’s journey inspires us to chase our dreams with tenacity, to embrace challenges with grace, and to always play with our hearts.
“Thank you for the memories, the lessons, and the pure joy you’ve brought to the sport @rafaelnadal.”
Fans were left gushing over Tsitsipas’ message. “I’m still crying,” replied one fan with a tearful emoji. “Such beautiful words.
Tsitsipas faced Nadal on nine occasions, managing only two victories. Their latest meeting came in the 2021 Barcelona Open final, in which Nadal triumphed 6-4 6-7 7-5.
Nadal’s retirement also came as a shock to fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz. The world No. 2 was about to go on court to face Tomas Machac – a match he lost – when he learned that his idol was quitting.
Alcaraz said: “When I saw it, it was tough to accept it. I was in shock a little bit. I saw it like one hour before the match, so I had time to accept it and forget it a little bit before the match.
“It is a really difficult thing, really difficult news for everybody, and even tougher for me. He has been my idol since I start playing tennis. I look up to him.
