The 38-year-old shocked the sporting world when he released a video on Thursday morning confirming he will bid farewell after November’s Davis Cup finals.

It will bring an end to a 23-year career which included 22 Grand Slam titles, two Olympic gold medals and 209 weeks as the World number one.

How does Andy Roddick think Rafael Nadal inspired Carlos Alcaraz?

Not only will Rafael Nadal be remembered for achievements, but also how he approached the game on and off the court. Many have spoken about the Spaniard’s work ethic, dedication to the game, his resiliency and humility.

These are traits that have inspired a generation of players, including Carlos Alcaraz, who grew up watching his compatriot as a youngster, to playing against and alongside Nadal at the Paris Olympics.

As the 21-year-old continues to forge his own path in tennis, Andy Roddick thinks it is clear to see how Nadal has impacted him.

“It’s not often that someone who is younger than you and trying to take your lunch becomes one of your idols. But he absolutely is,” Roddick said on his ‘Served’ podcast. “He is the idol of many players. Older generation and younger generation.

“Someone we are going to be able to point to for a long, long time. It seems like he has passed a lot of those attributes down.

“We see it every day in the way Carlos Alcaraz deals with people, I don’t think that is accidental. I believe in having idols who you can look up to.”

Andy Roddick has one wish for Rafael Nadal after he retires

Roddick had the difficult task of playing Nadal at the start of his career and during some of his prime years on the ATP Tour. They played 10 times between 2004 and 2011, and Roddick emerged victorious on three occasions. 

Roddick took time on his podcast to issue some kind words to Nadal, and asked the 22-time Grand Slam champion for one thing.

“Rafa, you are an idol of mine. I hope the other side is as great as your career was. It was my honour to share a court with you,” the American added.

“I know I speak for the entire tennis world when I say our respect is endless. We love you and we miss you. We hope you don’t become a stranger and we know that you won’t.”

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