CNN —Rafael Nadal had an “emotional day” playing what was likely to be his final professional match in the Spanish capital, losing 7-5 6-4 against Czech Republic’s Jiří Lehečka at the Madrid Open.
Before the tournament, Nadal said that he was determined to play in Madrid – where he is a record five-time champion – one final time, despite doubts about whether he was physically ready to compete at a high level.
“Today is an emotional day, of course, today is an unforgettable day in terms of saying goodbye to Madrid,” Nadal told reporters.
The tournament paid tribute to Nadal’s five titles at the Madrid Open after the match, unfurling banners with photos of his victories in 2005, 2010, 2013, 2014 and 2017.
“It has been a very positive week, winning three matches, playing four matches at a high level of tennis,” said Nadal.
Persons:
CNN — Rafael Nadal, Lehečka, Nadal, –, ” Nadal, I’ve, “, ”, Julian Finney, Daniil Medvedev
Organizations:
CNN, Czech, Madrid, Madrid –, Lehečka, Nadal, Getty
Locations:
Spanish, Madrid, “, Russian, Rome