Sporting greats pay homage to Rafa Nadal after the tennis great announced his retirement

Some of the biggest names in sports have paid tribute to Rafael Nadal after the tennis legend announced that he will retire at the end of the 2024 season. 

The 38-year-old, who has struggled with injuries over the past two years, revealed in a video that he would be hanging up his racket and that his final appearance will come as part of the Spanish David Cup team in November. 

Before he bows out, Nadal will compete in the Six Kings Slam tournament - live on DAZN and free to watch - but upon hearing the news, sporting legends and clubs have taken to social media to hail the 22-time Grand Slam winner, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlos Alcaraz and Andres Iniesta. 

• Read next | Six Kings Slam set to be one of Rafael Nadal's last tournaments after he announces retirement

Cristiano Ronaldo: "Rafa, what an incredible career you have had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honor to witness your journey and be able to call you a friend. Congratulations on an amazing career! Enjoy of your retirement!" 

Casper Rudd: "Rafa eternal!! Thank you for everything, legend"

Andres Iniesta: "Congratulations on your spectacular career and the legacy you leave behind!"

Jorge Martin: "You were already a legend. Thank you so much @rafaelnadal, the world at your feet."
 

Real Madrid: "Given Rafa Nadal's announcement about his retirement from tennis as a professional player after the Davis Cup that he will play with Spain in November 2024, Real Madrid C.F., its president and its Board of Directors want to show their admiration and affection for one of the greatest legends of Spanish sport and world sport of all time.

For us and for all of Madrid fans it is and will always be a source of pride that a myth like Rafa Nadal represents our club as an honorary member of Real Madrid..."

Marc Marquez: “THANK YOU RAFA for being a reference for everyone” Roland Garros: "14 thanks for the millions of memories"  Thibaut Courtois: "You have been an example as an athlete and an eternal reference" Ilker Casillas: "Thank you very much for all the joys you have given us all these years. You are an example my friend!! Great professional! Great person!! Now it's time to rest and enjoy yours." Rod Laver: "Another tough one. Retirement is inevitable but I’m going to miss watching this bloke fighting for every point like no other. A truly remarkable human, best wishes @RafaelNadal " Carolina Martin: "When I was little I had no references in my sport to look at. That's why the figure I always aspired to be like is him: for what he represents, for his dedication... And now for his legacy. Thank you so much, Rafa "Nadal." Nick Kyrgios: "Rafa don’t retire I wanna play you 1 last time." Atletico Madrid:  "Thank you for making us enjoy your exceptional career throughout your exceptional career, Rafa Nadal. It has been a privilege to follow your career until you became a legend of Spanish sport. We wish you much happiness in this new stage of your life" Wimbledon: "Forever a Champion."  Carlos Alcarez: "From the child who watched you on television and dreamed of becoming a tennis player to the one who had the immense gift of playing alongside you at Roland Garros representing Spain in the Olympic Games! Thank you very much for being an example at all levels, Your legacy is unrepeatable! I have enjoyed you very much and I will miss you very much when you leave after Davis, Rafa!"

What is the Six Kings Slam Tournament? 

The Six Kings Slam is an exhibition tennis tournament held across three days and featuring six big-name players. 

As it's a non-ATP-sanctioned event, players will not earn any ranking points. Each of the six participants is guaranteed a minimum prize of $1,500,000 USD, with the winner will taking home the largest prize in tennis history, $6,000,000 USD - almost double the prize money for a Grand Slam champion

• Read next | The Six Kings Slam tournament: Full guide What is it? Who is playing in it

Can I watch the Six Kings Slam on DAZN? 

The competition will be streamed live and for free on DAZN in over 200 countries across the globe.

You just need a freemium DAZN membership. Register here for a free DAZN account to watch Six Kings Slam .