Novak Djokovic reacts to Rafael Nadal's retirement: 'Will be there in person to pay respect'

Novak Djokovic thanked Rafael Nadal for “pushing” him to the “very limit” and helping him become a better tennis player as the Spaniard announced that he will retire from professional tennis at the end of 2024. Nadal on Wednesday announced that he will bid farewell to tennis after the Davis Cup finals in November. Nadal, who has won 22 Grand Slams, is only behind Djokovic on the all-time list. The Serbian has won 24 Grand Slam trophies.

“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport. You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis and I think that’s probably greatest achievement anyone can wish for. Your tenacity, dedication, fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades,” Djokovic wrote in an emotional Instagram post.

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Djokovic to attend Nadal’s farewell

The 37-year-old, who enjoyed an intense rivalry with Nadal, added that the Spaniard’s legacy will live forever.

“Your legacy will live forever. Only you know what you had to endure to become icon of tennis and sport in general. Thank you for pushing me to the very limit so many times in our rivalry that has impacted me the most as a player. Your passion for representing Spain has always been remarkable. I wish you best possible farewell in Malaga with Davis Cup team of Spain. I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.”

Overall in 60 matches during their career, Djokovic narrowly leads 31-29.

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Fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz said he was shocked at Nadal’s announcement.

“When I watched it, it was tough to accept it. I was in shock a little bit,” said Alcaraz after he lost in the Shanghai Masters in the last eight.

Rafa Nadal: A glittering career marked by injuries and gutsy comebacks

Alcaraz will be partnering with Nadal in the Davis Cup later this year.

“To see him leave tennis, which is what he loves, is painful, it hurts me. I will try to make the most of the time I will be with him… to take advantage of his last moments on court as a professional.”

Sinner pays tribute

World number one Jannik Sinner said: “He’s an unbelievable person.”

“He taught us young players how to behave on the court, how to handle situations on the court. Also to stay humble at the same time, not changing with his success.

“It’s tough news for all the tennis world and not only (the tennis world).”