End of an era: Rafael Nadal announces retirement from tennis

Dubbed the “King of Clay” for his jaw-dropping 112-4 win-loss record at the Paris major, Nadal’s last Roland-Garros triumph came in 2022.

Nadal will hang up his racquet two years after great rival and Swiss maestro Roger Federer, leaving record 24-times major winner Novak Djokovic of Serbia as the only member of the “Big Three” still active.

Federer led the tributes to Nadal on social media, saying that he had hoped the day his friend announced his retirement would never come.

“What a career, Rafa … Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour,” the Swiss great said.

Nadal thanked his family and his team for their support, with a special word for his uncle Toni, who was his coach for most of the majority of his career.

“I believe that thanks to him, I have also been able to overcome many situations that have been difficult in my sporting career,” he said.

To his fans, Nadal said: “I can’t thank you enough for what you have made me feel. Everything I have experienced has been a dream come true.”

“I leave with the absolute peace of mind having given my best,” he added.

Nadal is now expected to receive what promises to be an emotional tribute at Roland-Garros next year, with a similar celebration of his career expected at the Davis Cup on home soil.