Rafael Nadal loses to Novak Djokovic and reflects on ‘amazing rivalry’

Rafael Nadal reflected on an “amazing rivalry” with Novak Djokovic and said he “would not be the player he is today” after losing their final meeting as professionals.

Nadal, 38, announced earlier this month that he will retire from tennis at the end of the season.

Serbia’s Djokovic beat the Spaniard 6-2 7-6 (7-5) in their third-place match at the Six Kings Slam exhibition event in Saudi Arabia.

The pair shared a warm embrace at the net at the end, while Nadal was presented with a golden tennis racquet as part of a post-match presentation in Riyadh.

“Thank you very much for all of the moments we shared on court during all of our careers – we have had an amazing rivalry,” said Nadal in an interview conducted on court.

“You helped me to go over my limits so thank you for that, because without that, I would probably not be the player that I am today.”

Nadal will represent Spain in his final appearance at next month’s Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.

“What I will miss is almost everything,” added Nadal, who won a record 14 French Open titles and 22 Grand Slams in total.

“It has been a dream come true to have been able to play for almost 20 years, being competitive and having the chance to play at the best places in the world.

“I realised my dream to become a professional tennis player and be a successful one. I can’t thank people enough for the support and the love I’ve received all around.”