Spain’s Davis Cup captain, David Ferrer, has described Rafael Nadal’s farewell ceremony after his final match as “a bit sad” and “watered down.” In a candid interview, Ferrer highlighted the absence of “very important people” who had played key roles in Nadal’s illustrious career, singling out Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as notable absentees. Nadal, an icon of the sport, bowed out of professional tennis following a loss to Botic van de Zandschulp during Spain’s Davis Cup quarter-final against the Netherlands.
Despite an emotional speech from Nadal and a tribute video featuring Djokovic, Federer, Andy Murray, Serena Williams, and football legends, Ferrer expressed his disappointment. He remarked that the absence of Federer and Djokovic in person left the farewell ceremony lacking the grandeur it deserved.
Ferrer Reflects on Nadal’s Farewell
Speaking to El Partidazo de Cope Ferrer shared his sorrow about the circumstances of Nadal’s retirement. Spain’s unexpected loss and early exit from the Davis Cup marked the end of Nadal’s playing days and created a less-than-ideal setting for a farewell. “It wasn’t the scenario we wanted. We were favorites, but we didn’t show it,” Ferrer admitted. He also pointed out the rushed nature of the tribute, blaming the format of the Davis Cup for the subdued atmosphere.
“The farewell was done with the best of intentions, but it was after losing and in a hurry… it was a bit sad. I missed Federer, Djokovic, [Pau] Gasol, who is a close friend of his. It was his last match, and we won’t see him on a court again. I missed those people.” Ferrer lamented. However, he reassured fans that Nadal’s greatness would continue to be celebrated in the future at prestigious tournaments, where he is sure to receive the send-off he truly deserves.
The Spaniard and Federer’s rivalry is regarded as one of tennis’s greatest, with the pair having faced each other 40 times. Their relationship extended beyond the court, with Federer attending the opening of Nadal’s tennis academy in 2016 and Nadal sharing an emotional moment during Federer’s retirement at the Laver Cup in 2022.
Novak Djokovic, who holds a storied rivalry with Nadal as well, had stated on the day of Nadal’s retirement announcement, “I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.” However, the Serb was only seen on the screens giving a video message to the Spaniard, but not in person.
Federer and Djokovic’s absence this time, however, drew attention. Ferrer noted that the lack of these personal connections at the ceremony detracted from the occasion’s emotional weight. Pau Gasol, the Spanish NBA legend and close friend of Nadal, was also missed. “It should not have been me speaking at the ceremony,” Ferrer confessed, underscoring his belief that the event deserved a more illustrious lineup.
As Nadal transitions into retirement, he leaves behind a legacy unmatched in the sport, with 22 Grand Slam titles and countless memories. His farewell, while bittersweet, marks the end of an era and opens the door for tennis fans worldwide to reflect on his incredible career and await future tributes worthy of his stature.
Main Photo Credit: Peter van den Berg-USA TODAY Sports
