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Watch: Rafael Nadal signs souvenirs for his fans waiting in large numbers after his final match in Madrid

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Gouri Das | Last updated 5/1/24

Rafael Nadal bid farewell to the fans on his home soil, maybe, for the last time. A struggling Nadal did not play to his full potential against the Czech Republic’s Jiri Lehecka at the Mutua Madrid Open.

The 30th seed secured a win over the Spaniard in straight sets 7-5, 6-4 after a two-hour battle. Despite giving a ray of hope to his fans after three wins in the previous rounds, an emotional Nadal made his way out of the Caja Magica.

Then in the early hours of the morning, as Nadal was leaving following the loss, passionate fans in large numbers requested for his autographs and selfies. The Spaniard did not disappoint his adoring fans as he walked up to them to sign the souvenirs.

Watch the video here:

The five-time Madrid Open champion defeated Darwin Blanch, Alex de Minaur, and Pedro Cachin before he lost to Lehecka in the fourth round.

Rafael Nadal confirms he won’t play in Madrid next year

Fans on the Manolo Santana court warmly applauded Rafael Nadal after his defeat to Jiri Lehecka. All that he saw in front of him- fans’ love, the banner that had pictures of his five wins at the tournament, and the tears shed by his family, made him emotional, and he thanked everyone for their love and support.

Even though it’s not over, this is the last time I’ll be in Madrid. You have given me a gift for the last 21 years that’s more significant than any Grand Slam I have won. The emotions of playing in Madrid, in front of the Spanish fans, is something that will stay with me forever. Rafael Nadal said after the match

The 37-year-old won the tournament on his home soil in 2008, 2010, 2013, 2014, and 2017. Had he won the fourth-round match, it would have been his 100th ATP 1000 Masters quarterfinal. Though it did not happen, Nadal felt lucky for all the experiences.

I’ve been lucky enough to be able to do a hobby as my job and to do it exceptionally well. I feel so lucky to have had all these experiences. I couldn’t ask for more. Rafael Nadal added

Nadal’s next target is to play well at the Rome Open. These games will help him prepare for the ultimate clay event- the Roland Garros, where the King of Clay lifted the crown a record 14 times.

Nadal would have won his 23rd Grand Slam title at last year’s French Open if he had not suffered the hip flexor injury in the Australian Open. If he plays in the upcoming French Open, it may also turn out to be his last one in Paris.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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