The tennis world bid a tearful goodbye to one of its greatest legends as Rafael Nadal officially announced his retirement, ending a career that spanned two decades and redefined the sport. In an emotionally charged ceremony at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, the 22-time Grand Slam champion shared the news with family, friends, and an adoring global audience. Among the crowd, Nadal’s wife, Maria Francisca Perelló—known affectionately as Xisca—could not hold back her tears as she cradled their young son, Rafa Jr., witnessing the culmination of her husband’s extraordinary journey.

The moment was more than just the end of a career; it was the close of a chapter in sports history. For fans, Nadal represented an unparalleled blend of humility, grit, and passion. For his family, the announcement marked the end of a life defined by sacrifice, triumph, and relentless determination.

An Emotional Goodbye

The announcement, long speculated but still heartbreaking, was made in a setting that symbolised everything Nadal stood for: hard work, family, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Nadal, wearing his signature humility, began his speech with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the people who had been part of his journey.

“Today, I stand here, not just as a tennis player, but as a man whose life has been shaped by this sport. It’s time to say goodbye to professional tennis, and it’s the hardest decision I’ve ever made,” Nadal said, his voice cracking with emotion.

As he spoke, Xisca, seated in the front row, could be seen wiping away tears, her face reflecting a mixture of pride and sorrow. Beside her, Rafa Jr., who recently turned one, was too young to understand the gravity of the moment but old enough to sense the emotional energy in the room.

The Weight of the Decision

Nadal’s retirement had been looming over the tennis world for months. The injury had plagued the latter stages of his career, particularly his chronic foot condition, Müller-Weiss syndrome, which had forced him to withdraw from several tournaments in 2023 and 2024. Despite a remarkable return to win his 22nd Grand Slam at the French Open in 2023, the physical toll was evident.

“I’ve given everything I have to this sport,” Nadal said. “But my body is telling me it’s time. I want to focus on my family, my foundation, and the next chapter of my life.”

For Xisca, who has been by Nadal’s side since their teenage years, the announcement was a bittersweet moment. Their relationship, defined by steadfast support and shared sacrifice, had seen them navigate the pressures of a global career. Nadal has often credited Xisca with providing the stability and emotional grounding that allowed him to excel.

Xisca’s Tears: A Life of Sacrifice and Support

Xisca Perelló has rarely been in the limelight, preferring to stay behind the scenes. However, her presence has always been a constant in Nadal’s life, quietly supporting him through the highs and lows of his career. As a businesswoman and director of the Rafa Nadal Foundation, she has played an integral role in shaping their shared legacy beyond the court.

Witnessing Nadal’s farewell, Xisca’s tears spoke volumes. They were not just tears of sadness but also of pride and reflection on the sacrifices they had made together. From long weeks on the tour to Nadal’s gruelling rehabilitation processes, Xisca had been his anchor.

“It’s hard to explain what this moment means for us as a family,” she later told reporters. “We’ve lived through every victory and every setback together. Today is not just about saying goodbye to tennis—it’s about celebrating everything Rafa has achieved.”

Rafa Jr.: A New Generation

While the focus was understandably on Nadal, the presence of his young son added a poignant layer to the event. Rafa Jr., born in October 2022, represents a new chapter in Nadal’s life, one defined by fatherhood and family.

Nadal has often spoken about how becoming a father has changed his perspective. “Being a dad gives you a different sense of what’s important,” he said during his retirement announcement. “I want to be present for my son’s first steps, his first words, and all the moments I’ve missed while being on tour.”

For fans, the sight of Rafa Jr. on his father’s lap during post-ceremony photos was a heartwarming reminder that life goes on, even for the greatest of champions.

Tributes Pour In

As news of Nadal’s retirement spread, tributes poured in from around the world. Fellow tennis legends, including Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Serena Williams, took to social media to express their admiration.

Nadal’s long-time rival and close friend Federer wrote: “Congratulations on an incredible career, Rafa. The battles we shared will always remain some of the greatest memories of my life. Wishing you all the best in this next chapter.”

Djokovic, with whom Nadal had one of the fiercest rivalries in sports, shared: “Tennis will never be the same without you, Rafa. Your spirit, fight, and sportsmanship inspired millions. Enjoy your time with your family—you’ve earned it.”

The Legacy of a Legend

Rafael Nadal’s retirement leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. Known as the “King of Clay,” his dominance at Roland Garros, where he won an astonishing 14 titles, is unparalleled. But beyond the statistics, it’s Nadal’s fighting spirit, humility, and respect for the game that have earned him a place in the hearts of millions.

“He’s more than a champion,” said John McEnroe during a televised tribute. “He’s a role model, an ambassador for the sport, and a symbol of what it means to never give up.”

Nadal’s contributions to tennis go beyond his on-court achievements. Through the Rafael Nadal Academy and Foundation, he has worked to inspire and nurture young talent, ensuring that his legacy will live on for generations.

What’s Next for Nadal?

While Nadal’s competitive days are over, he made it clear that he is not stepping away from tennis entirely. “I’ll always be involved in the sport, whether through my academy, my foundation, or as a mentor,” he said. “Tennis has given me everything, and I want to give back.”

For now, though, his focus is on family. “I’ve missed so many birthdays, anniversaries, and small moments. It’s time to be there for Xisca and Rafa Jr., just as they’ve always been there for me.”

A Tearful Farewell, A New Beginning

As the ceremony came to a close, Nadal took a final moment to address the crowd. “Thank you for believing in me, supporting me, and making this journey unforgettable,” he said, tears streaming down his face.

For Xisca, Rafa Jr., and the millions of fans who have followed his career, Nadal’s retirement is both an end and a beginning—a chance to celebrate his unparalleled legacy while looking forward to the next chapter of his life. While the tennis world will miss seeing him on the court, his impact will be felt for years to come.

And as the family embraced at the end of the ceremony, it was clear that Rafael Nadal’s greatest victory wasn’t a trophy—it was the life he built both on and off the court.