Roger Federer leads tributes to ‘incredible’ Rafael Nadal – as 22-time Grand Slam champion prepares to bid farewell to glittering tennis career

Roger Federer has led the tributes to his ‘incredible’ adversary Rafael Nadal after the 22-time Grand Slam champion called time on a glittering tennis career.

The Spanish tennis icon is considered one of the greatest to ever play the game – and by some the best of all – but has shocked supporters by confirming he will soon be hanging up his racket for good.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion has struggled with injuries over the last few years and, fittingly, his final act on court will be playing for Spain in front of home fans in Malaga in the Davis Cup.

The 38-year-old’s decision to join Roger Federer in retirement will leave Novak Djokovic as the last man standing from the triumvirate who have dominated tennis for two decades.

Now Federer, with whom Nadal played out one of the greatest matches of all time in the 2008 Wimbledon final, has heaped praise on his former rival.

Roger Federer (left) has led the tributes to his 'incredible' adversary Rafael Nadal (right)

The Spanish tennis icon is considered one of the greatest to ever play the game but has shocked supporters by confirming he will soon be hanging up his racket for good

Federer said: ‘I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories’

He posted on Instagram: ‘What a career, Rafa!

‘I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love.

‘It’s been an absolute honour!’

Roland Garros, which Nadal has made his home over the course of his career with 14 French Open wins, made reference to his dominance in its tribute.

’14 thanks for the millions of memories,’ the official account posted on X, formerly Twitter.

German football icon Toni Kroos, who retired over the summer, added: ‘What an example as a player and, more importantly, as a person! See you soon, Raf.’

Italian tennis star Matteo Berrettini simply said: ‘Legend.’

Australian hothead Nick Kyrgios added: ‘We had our differences but you were one hell of a warrior. Best wishes and goodluck with whatever comes next.’

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