by Rafael Nadal reflected on an “amazing rivalry” with Novak Djokovic and said he “wouldn’t be the player he is today” after losing their last meeting as professionals.
Nadal, 38, announced earlier this month that he would retire from tennis at the end of the season.
The Serbian Djokovic defeated the Spaniard in the game for third place at the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia 6:2, 7:6 (7:5).
At the end, the two shared a warm hug at the net while Nadal was presented with a gold tennis racket during a post-match presentation in Riyadh.
“Thank you very much for all the moments we have had on court throughout our careers – we had an amazing rivalry,” Nadal said in an on-court interview.
“You helped me go beyond my limits. Thank you very much for that, because without it I probably wouldn’t be the player I am today.”
Nadal will represent Spain in his final appearance at the Davis Cup final in Malaga next month.
“What I will miss is almost everything,” added Nadal, who won a record 14 French Open titles and a total of 22 Grand Slams.
“It was a dream come true to be able to play for almost 20 years, be competitive and have the chance to play on the best courses in the world.”
“I realized my dream of becoming a professional tennis player and being successful. I can’t thank people enough for the support and love I’ve received everywhere.”
