Rafael Nadal has created many special achievements in tennis history, but he is only human and cannot overcome the laws of time.
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 topspin.
The left-handed Spaniard has won 22 Grand Slams in his career, including a record 14 Roland Garros titles. Nadal has 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.
Tennis player Rafael Nadal could not hold back his tears when the Spanish national anthem was played during the home match against the Netherlands in the Davis Cup quarter-finals on November 19.
Nadal was overcome with emotion when his name was announced during the team introductions, amid cheers and applause from the 11,000 spectators at the Jose Maria Martin Carpena stadium in Malaga. Then, as the wordless Spanish national anthem was played, Nadal broke down in tears.
The 38-year-old was chosen by captain David Ferrer to play his first singles match against Botic Van de Zandschulp. This was Nadal’s first official match in nearly three months, and possibly the last of his career. With the enthusiastic cheers of the home crowd, Nadal started well and led 4-3 in the first set. However, a series of errors in the pivotal game cost him the set, losing 4-6.