Rafael Nadal believes “everything has a beginning and an end” as he relayed the emotional message after bowing out to Alex de Minaur at the 2024 Barcelona Open.
The legendary Spaniard admitted the loss hurt him while saying he would have liked to fight for one more title at the ATP 500 event which has given him so much throughout his career.
Nadal was brushed aside by Aussie Alex de Minaur 7-5, 6-1 in the R32 clash on Wednesday in what was most certainly the Spaniard’s farewell match at the event. The 37-year old received a big ovation from the fans as he left his namesake court after losing to the world #11.
Following the loss, the 12-time Barcelona champion admitted that he does not expect to play in Barcelona again as he expressed his gratitude for the special place in his life.
“I am an emotionally stable person, I take everything philosophically, analyzing things correctly,” said the Mallorcan in his post-match press conference.
“The normal thing is that it was my last game at Godó (the Barcelona Open), you all know how important this tournament has been for my career. This has been the tournament par excellence that we have had in Spain for a long time.
“The best players in history have passed through here and I have always respected that history. On top of that, it is played in a tennis club, which is why this tournament is different from the vast majority.
“I have really enjoyed playing here, I have lived very nice moments, I have managed to win 12 times, something unimaginable for me.”
Following the match Nadal took to Instagram and once again offered tribute to Barcelona Open as he reflected on his farewell.
“I played and was happy doing it on a court and special tournament, classic and traditional tournament of our circuit. A place, a club, that saw me grow as a player and where I had so many joys,” wrote the 22-time Grand Slam champion.
“Everything has a beginning and an end and I would have liked to fight for the title one more time. It hurts, but it’s been nice to play here always, today too. Thank you very much for everything Barcelona. Thank you very much!”
Nadal who has expressed his thoughts to call time on his legendary career in 2024 will next appear at Madrid Open which kicks off on April 23. He then hopes to compete at the Italian Open in Rome before participating in his beloved Roland Garros.
The former World #1 recorded a comfortable 6-2, 6-3 win against Flavio Cobolli in the R64 matchup on Tuesday in which was her first match since January. The 14-time French Open champion had not competed since his quarterfinal loss against Jordan Thompson in Brisbane in International back earlier in January.