Rafael Nadal sent a brief, heartfelt reply to Novak Djokovic after his long-time rival missed his emotional farewell at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga on Friday

Rafael Nadal sent a brief, heartfelt reply to Novak Djokovic after his long-time rival missed his farewell at the Davis Cup Finals. When Nadal initially announced his retirement plans last month, the 24-time Grand Slam champion vowed to be in Malaga for his final match.

The 37-year-old from Belgrade will be one of the favorites at the next Australian Open, for which he will prepare with great dedication by also playing a tournament in the first week of January. Nole's focus will be totally directed towards the Grand Slam tournaments and the Davis Cup, to try to replicate the historic triumph obtained in 2011.

Rafael Nadal has announced his retirement from professional tennis, with the Spaniard's great rival Novak Djokovic having previously opened up on their relationship

Rafael Nadal officially played his last tennis match on Tuesday at the Davis Cup, and it was an emotional goodbye for the sports world. His legendary 23-year career included 22 Grand Slam wins, 92 ATP Tour titles,

Roger Federer's former coach Paul Annacone claimed that sports has never had a greater competitor than the retired Rafael Nadal.

There are not many players who can say they have defeated all three of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in Grand Slam matches. Andy Murray, Stan Wawrinka, Tomas Berdych and Jo-Wilfred Tsonga are the only four tennis stars to have achieved that remarkable feat.

Toni Nadal has hit out at Novak Djokovic yet again, claiming the Serbian has not earned the same level of respect in tennis as his nephew Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer

Toni Nadal took a swipe at Novak Djokovic's actions on the tennis court and explained why his nephew Rafael Nadal has managed to earn "superior respect"

Rafael Nadal's retirement from professional tennis has brought an outpouring of tributes from plenty of current or former players.

Federer was the first to reach 20 Grand Slam titles by winning the 2018 Australian Open, which was the last Major title of his legendary career. The former Swiss champion was the most loved player by fans in every corner of the planet and his impact on the sport is unparalleled.