Cristiano Ronaldo sends 45-word message to Rafael Nadal after 22-time Grand Slam champion announces retirement
Cristiano Ronaldo has sent a 45-word message to Rafael Nadal to Instagram after the legendary tennis player announced his retirement. The 22-time Grand Slam champion will play in November's Davis Cup Finals before finally hanging up the racket after a prestigious career.
Nadal has notably struggled with injuries over the last couple of years, barely playing in 2023 due to a hip injury. Back in May, he notably revealed that 2024 could be his final season, saying (via Bleacher Report):
"You never know what's going on, you know? I can't predict how I'm going to be in the next six months. I can't predict if my body will allow me to enjoy tennis as much as I enjoyed the past 20 years."
The 38-year-old legend has now decided to bring an end to his long, eventful career, as he explained in an Instagram video:
"I am here to let you know I am retiring from professional tennis. The reality is that it has been some difficult years, the last two especially. I don't think I have been able to play without limitations."
He thanked his rivals, coworkers, friends, parents, and the tennis community at large, while also adding:
"I think it's the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could ever have imagined. I’m very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup and representing my country."
Cristiano Ronaldo reached out to Nadal in the comment section of his Instagram post with the message:
"Rafa, what an incredible race you've had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honor to witness your journey and to be able to call you a friend. Congrats on an amazing career! Enjoy your retirement!"
Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafael Nadal have not only been friends but also business partners in recent years. The legendary Portuguese striker is only a year older, and could potentially hang up his boots in the near future.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafael Nadal own a hospitality business together
Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafael Nadal have been close for many years, notably joining hands to start the Mabel Hospitality Group. They went into business with Manuel Campos Guallar and Abel Matutes Prats in 2014, and also started a Spanish restaurant called Tatel (via Hola!).
The restaurant has branches in Madrid, Beverly Hills, Ibiza, Mexico City, and Riyadh. They have now opened a branch in Dubai, through a business partnership with Leisure Quest (via whatson.ae).
Aside from Tatel, Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafael Nadal also own TOTO - an Italian restaurant, which opened in Abu Dhabi earlier this year. The restaurant has also opened in Dubai.