Rafael Nadal has already retired from tennis, but praise keeps coming his way also after his official retirement.
The 38-year-old Spanish player ended what had been a suffering in recent years by retiring from the sport. It wasn't a victorious retirement, but it was still a beautiful moment as one of the legends of the sport said goodbye.
Nadal is one of the most accomplished tennis players ever, having won 22 majors, out of which 14 wins came on the Parisian clay. He is the greatest clay-court tennis player of all time.
After his retirement, many former and current players, coaches, pundits, and even fans came with their tributes for Nadal, and one of them was also his uncle, Toni Nadal.
Uncle Toni, as most know him, couldn't be present in Malaga during the retirement ceremony, and he was one of those who weren't happy about his ceremony.
Shortly after his nephew's retirement, Toni spoke to ATPTour.com about Rafa's tennis career and what made him most happy about it. The 63-year-old explained that as his relative, he most loved to see that Nadal's character didn't change during his career despite being enormously successful.
"I don’t like the word proud too much. I feel very happy about everything that he’s achieved, obviously on court because of everything he won. But, above all, the most notable thing, which really pleases me as a relative, is seeing how a boy who had a dream of being a great tennis player did everything possible without losing his way."
Toni Nadal explained that not only he, but also many other people noticed how Rafa was able to "keep his feet on the ground" despite being incredibly competitive and successful.
"He always kept his feet on the ground. Staying competitive within the limits of correctness. That’s definitely what has pleased me the most. I’ve loved seeing how much people have appreciated that."
Toni also explained why the 22-time major winner could leave the sport with "his head held high." He was known for always being extremely nice to all the staff at tournaments, which is why so many spoke highly about his also after his retirement.
"Of course, he can go with his head held high. After everything he achieved, having been there for many years, he has gained the immense respect of most people. He has left a good image at all the tournaments he participated in. I think it is clear he can go with his head held high."
While Rafael Nadal's tennis career is over, Toni's coaching career will likely continue. Although he parted ways with Felix Auger-Aliassime this year, with his incredible experience, it's expected that Toni Nadal will return to the ATP Tour with some talented player, and it wouldn't be surprising if it was some young Spaniard.
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