Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer's absence from Rafael Nadal's farewell was noticeable, and a possible reason for that has been reported.
Nadal and millions of tennis fans worldwide hoped that Spain's quarterfinal against the Netherlands would not mark the end of his career. The Spaniards were heavy favorites to progress to the semifinal.
However, Nadal lost what turned out to be his final match against Botic van de Zandschulp, increasing the likelihood of an upset. Van de Zandschulp, who also defeated Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open, played solidly from start to finish.
Alcaraz defeated Tallon Griekspoor to force a decider, but Nadal's career was officially ended after van de Zandschulp and Wesley Koolhof beat Alcaraz and Tallon Griekspoor 7-6, 7-6.
A retirement ceremony was held for Nadal after Spain was eliminated. He spoke emotionally to the crowd for just over ten minutes, receiving a rapturous reception during and after the speech. Many inside the arena were in tears throughout.
The ceremony also included a video of various stars from tennis and other sports stars. Djokovic, Federer, Serena Williams, Andy Murray, Juan Martin Del Potro, and Andres Iniesta were among those who paid tribute to Nadal.
After the video, Nadal mentioned that he would prefer to be remembered more for being a good person from a small village in Mallorca than for his numerous well-known achievements.
The ceremony was a great way to celebrate Nadal, and those inside the arena will never forget being there for his closing words to mark the end of one of the most historic careers in any sport.
Yet many fans also noticed that Djokovic and Federer were not in the crowd. Djokovic had promised to attend Nadal's final event when he announced his retirement last month.
But neither of Nadal's great rivals was in the stands, which perplexed some. The Spanish newspaper El Espanol speculated on why Federer and Djokovic were not present.
El Espanol reported that Nadal's farewell celebrations were supposed to take place on Friday because Team Spain was expected to defeat the Netherlands and progress to the semifinal, which would have taken place on Friday.
The Spanish newspaper's report states that Federer and Djokovic planned to attend the official celebrations on Friday, but the Dutch triumph on Tuesday meant something had to be done for Nadal after Spain's exit.
Although nothing has been confirmed, it is possible that Nadal's celebration with his rivals present on Friday could still take place. It would be sad not to have them there for any part of the 38-year-old's last event.
Not only were Nadal and Djokovic present for Federer's last tournament at the Laver Cup two years ago, but Nadal also played doubles with Federer in his final match. It felt like a perfect ending to the Swiss maestro's career.
In truth, the last day of Nadal's professional career did not feel as perfect. A Friday celebration of him with Federer and Nadal there would make his final event feel more fitting.
0 Comments