Federer, Djokovic congratulate Nadal's career

Hours after Nadal released a video announcing his retirement, Federer wrote on Instagram tribute to close junior. "Express train" wishes Nadal's retirement day never comes, but accepts the fact that his former rival can no longer compete at the top.

"What a career, Rafa," Federer wrote. "Thanks for the great memories of the game we love. Your achievements are incredible. It was an honor to share your time."

Federer may have known about Nadal's retirement plans after the King of Clay withdrew from the Laver Cup last month. Federer revealed at the time that he had spoken to Nadal because the Spaniard had a few questions. Federer also said that he wanted to see Nadal retire in the way he wanted. This happened when Nadal announced that he would hang up his racket after the Davis Cup in November.

Also on Instagram, the remaining legend in the "Big 3" group, Novak Djokovic, sent words of gratitude to Nadal. "You have inspired millions of children to tennis and that is the greatest achievement," Nole wrote. "Your perseverance, dedication, and fighting spirit will be passed down for decades. Your legacy will live forever."

"Only he knows what he has endured to become an icon of tennis and sport in general," Nole added, thanking Nadal for pushing him to the limit many times in the competition between the two players, helping both reach the highest level possible.

Casper Ruud, one of the stars who grew up at Nadal's academy, expressed his admiration for his idol. "Forever Rafa," Ruud wrote on social media.X"Thank you for everything, my legend." Another tennis player, Nick Kyrgios, hopes Nadal will not retire, so he can play against him again.

Veteran star Andy Roddick also paid tribute to Nadal almost immediately after the media reported the 22-time Grand Slam winner's retirement. Roddick wrote: "The great Rafa. Thanks for all the memories my friend." Roddick is five years older than Nadal and has been retired for more than a decade. During his career, the American played Nadal 10 times and lost seven.

Legend Rod Laver said that retirement is inevitable for any tennis player. He will miss Nadal's fighting for every point, even in the most difficult of circumstances. He also described Nadal as the epitome of a real man.

Fellow tennis player Fernando Verdasco called Nadal his "biggest rival and best friend". He said what Nadal has achieved in tennis cannot be described in words. "But I think what awaits him ahead is even bigger," Verdasco said.

Some female tennis players such as Ons Jabeur and Iga Swiatek also expressed regret at not being able to watch their idol compete anymore. Jabeur wrote: "We will all miss you, Rafa. You were my biggest inspiration to pursue this sport."

Nadal announces retirement via social mediaXearly afternoon October 10 (Spanish time). He said he had spent two years struggling with injuries, leading to his inability to compete at the highest level. However, the 38-year-old tennis player affirmed that he had no regrets because he had achieved success beyond his imagination. He believes that everything in life has a cycle, a beginning and an end.

Nadal was born in 1986 and started playing professionally in 2001. He is known as the "King of Clay" with his tenacious defense and famous forehand spin. During his career, the left-handed Spanish player won 22 Grand Slams, including a record 14 Roland Garros titles. Nadal also won Wimbledon twice, the Australian Open twice and the US Open four times.

In addition to his 92 ATP titles, Nadal also holds Olympic gold medals in men's singles and men's doubles. The only major title the 38-year-old has yet to win in his career is the ATP Finals - a tournament for the best eight players each year.