Tennis legend Boris Becker labelled Rafael Nadal’s retirement announcement “a punch in the gut” and revealed speaking about the news brought tears to his eyes.

The six-time Grand Slam champion declared “there will never be anyone else who even comes close” to Nadal as he described the Spaniard as a “sports icon.”

Nadal announced on Thursday that he will make the final appearance of his professional career next month at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.

The 38-year-old is indisputably one of the greatest players in tennis history, having won 22 Grand Slam titles during an astonishing 23-year career.

The former world No 1 has not played since the end of July, when he competed in singles and doubles at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Nadal has been restricted by injuries during the latter stages of his career and has played seven events in 2024 after playing just four matches in 2023.

Rafael Nadal News

‘Rafael Nadal overachieved more than anybody’, claims tennis legend in Roger Federer comparison

Novak Djokovic makes personal promise to Rafael Nadal in touching tribute

Speaking to Eurosport, Becker reflected on Nadal’s remarkable achievements and the approaching end of the ‘Big Three’ era.

“When I heard it, it was a punch in the gut. I think the decision is the right one,” Becker said. “What hasn’t Rafael Nadal won? He was world No 1 for 209 weeks. He finished the year as No 1 five times.

“Among the 22 [Grand Slam] titles were a whopping 14 Roland Garros titles. He also won every other Grand Slam at least twice. There are no real numbers.

“Then, of course, you have to look at his opponents. Federer is one of them, Djokovic is one of them, so the end of the Big Three is near.”

The former world No 1 shared an anecdote detailing when he first met Nadal and highlighted the qualities that he feels set the Spaniard apart.

“I personally got to know Rafael Nadal many decades ago when he was fourteen or fifteen,” Becker recalled.

“His uncle Toni introduced him to me. Back then, Rafa also played with both hands on his forehand. What did I think of his young nephew? I was always blown away, even then.

“What really has to be emphasised is what sets him apart: his uncompromising attitude, his ambition, his motivation, his willingness to fight.

“The fact that he was always prepared to simply run one step further than the other. It was incredible how many balls he ran after and ultimately always played to the end.

“I can’t remember a match where Nadal didn’t want to play anymore. Sometimes he couldn’t go on. He played on anyway. But he always fought to the end. And so many matches ended in the fifth set.

“I think that’s the greatest quality he had, playing every game to the end with full vigour and passion.”

Becker then hailed Nadal’s attitude in victory and defeat as he concluded his emotional tribute.

“Yes, the tennis world will miss him, of course. He’s not just a tennis icon, he’s a sports icon,” added the German.

“What he represents for Spain, what he represents for world sport, the way he performed, a role model for the younger generation, how to deal with victory and defeat, how to constantly try to improve, to not be satisfied with yesterday, always to go one step further tomorrow. That is what really sets him apart.

“I also have tears in my eyes when I say these sentences, because there will never be anyone else who even comes close to Rafael Nadal. As I always say so beautifully at the end: Vamos Rafa!”

READ NEXT: The 8 Spanish men with the most ATP titles: Rafael Nadal with 92, Carlos Alcaraz tied with two players