Rafael Nadal’s illustrious singles career came to a poignant end on Saturday, as he faced a 6-3, 6-3 defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in the Six Kings Slam held in Saudi Arabia. This match, marking his final competitive appearance, set the stage for an exhibition showdown against his longtime rival Novak Djokovic, a fitting conclusion to his storied journey in tennis.
As Nadal prepares for his retirement following the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga next month, this high-profile exhibition serves as part of his farewell tour. During a heartfelt on-court interview with broadcaster Andrew Castle, Nadal graciously acknowledged the rising star, Alcaraz, who is widely seen as his successor in Spanish tennis.
“I tried, even though I have not been on a competitive stage for a couple of months,” Nadal expressed to the enthusiastic crowd in Riyadh. “It was a good performance, even if it wasn’t enough to play against an animal like him. It was a positive match for me, and I’m happy.”
The Saudi audience gave Nadal an electrifying reception, prompting him to thank fans worldwide for their unwavering support. “I feel well supported and loved all around the world,” he said. “I’ll never have the chance to thank everyone enough. They helped me during tough moments and positive ones, always pushing me to the next level of energy. I feel very fortunate.”
Reflecting on his extensive career, Nadal added, “I had a very long and successful journey. The love and support around the world mean I’ve done things right both on and off the court. I’ve always tried to be kind to everyone throughout the years, and I feel satisfied with the affection from fans everywhere.”
When Castle inquired if he had any advice for Alcaraz, Nadal replied, “I think he doesn’t need much advice. He has a great team and family. He’s going to do very well with what he has. He’s learning all the time. When someone from your country comes along and excels, it’s special.”
Nadal fondly recalled their early interactions, stating, “People told me someone very good is coming. I didn’t have the chance to see him until we practiced together in Australia in 2021. Even at a young age, you could see qualities that set him apart. He’s evolving in every way, and I’m always here if he wants to reach out.”
Standing beside Nadal for the interview, a beaming Alcaraz emphasized the challenge of competing against a legend. “Trust me, I had to play at my best level,” Alcaraz said. “Rafa has been out of competition, and in tennis, you need matches to feel good. I knew I had to focus and play my best if I wanted to beat him. It’s always tough, but it’s a good moment sharing the court with him again.”
Looking ahead, Alcaraz is set to face Jannik Sinner in the tournament final, where a prize of approximately £4.6 million awaits the victor. This amount surpasses the prize money they earned for their Grand Slam victories in 2024, showcasing the lucrative opportunities presented by the Six Kings Slam.