Spanish icon Rafael Nadal has officially closed the curtain on an exceptional career in an emotional on-court farewell in front of his home fans in Málaga.
The 38-year-old announced his retirement last month, but the Davis Cup Finals would present one final opportunity to compete at the highest level.
However, Spain lost 2-1 in their quarter-final tie against the Netherlands after Carlos Alcaraz's victory in the singles wasn't enough.
Five hours before play commenced, it was confirmed that Spain team captain David Ferrer had given Nadal the nod over veteran Roberto Bautista Agut to compete in the opening singles rubber.
A gallant effort couldn't push the 22-time major winner over the line, succumbing to a 6-4 6-4 defeat at the hands of Botic van de Zandschulp.
As expected, there was barely a dry eye in the stadium when Nadal addressed the fans for the final time as a professional athlete.
"The truth is that you never want to get to this point. I’m not tired of playing tennis, but my body doesn’t want to play anymore and you have to accept that," said Nadal.
"I feel super privileged. I’ve been able to make my hobby my profession for a long time. I also remember my family, my team, you have been an unforgettable part of my life for all these years.
"I am a person who believes in continuity and staying close to the people who have made my life better and that has given me a personal relationship that goes far beyond the professional. Thank you so much because without you this would not have been possible and I say this from the heart."
Despite all of Nadal's achievements on court, including a record 14 French Open titles, an Olympic gold medal and holding the world No.1 ranking, the legacy he leaves behind is immense.
Grit, determination and a never-say-die spirit held Nadal in such high regard, who was once famously quoted as saying: "I play each point like my life depends on it."
The four-time Davis Cup champion responded classily when asked how he would like to be remembered.
"The way I would like to be remembered is as a good person from a small village in Mallorca. That I had the life that I had. I had my uncle who was a tennis coach in my village when I was a small kid. Just a kid that followed their dreams, worked as hard as possible to be where I am today. At the end of the day, a lot of people work hard, a lot of people try their best every day. But I am one of those who is lucky."
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