Novak Djokovic has praised Rafael Nadal for inspiring the next generation of players after the Spaniard announced his retirement from tennis.
After 50 epic matches, Djokovic and Nadal’s rivalry is over with their last match seeing the Serb claim his 31st victory in the series at the Olympics this summer.
This would prove to be Nadal’s last ever singles match at Roland Garros as Nadal has announced he will be retiring from tennis after the Davis Cup Finals.
On Instagram Djokovic paid tribute to his fiercest ever rival and praised him for inspiring the next generation of his players, “Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport,” Djokovic began his statement on social media.
“You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis and I think that’s probably greatest achievement anyone can wish for. Your tenacity, dedication, fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades. Your legacy will live forever.
“Only you know what you had to endure to become icon of tennis and sport in general. Thank you for pushing me to the very limit so many times in our rivalry that has impacted me the most as a player.”
Djokovic concluded his statement by saying that he will be at Nadal’s farewell event at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga as the world pays tribute to one of the greatest players of all time, “Our passion for representing Spain has always been remarkable. I wish you best possible farewell in Malaga with Davis Cup team of Spain.
“I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.”
