Rafael Nadal sent a brief, heartfelt reply to Novak Djokovic after his long-time rival missed his emotional farewell at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga on Friday

Rafael Nadal has announced his retirement from professional tennis, with the Spaniard's great rival Novak Djokovic having previously opened up on their relationship

Rafael Nadal sent a brief, heartfelt reply to Novak Djokovic after his long-time rival missed his farewell at the Davis Cup Finals. When Nadal initially announced his retirement plans last month, the 24-time Grand Slam champion vowed to be in Malaga for his final match.

The 37-year-old from Belgrade will be one of the favorites at the next Australian Open, for which he will prepare with great dedication by also playing a tournament in the first week of January. Nole's focus will be totally directed towards the Grand Slam tournaments and the Davis Cup, to try to replicate the historic triumph obtained in 2011.

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,

Toni Nadal has hit out at Novak Djokovic yet again, claiming the Serbian has not earned the same level of respect in tennis as his nephew Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer

The decision to use Rafa in singles did not produce a positive result, indeed that choice was decisive for the elimination of Spain. Despite practicing very well in the weeks leading up to the event, the 22-time Grand Slam champion failed to play his best tennis against Botic van de Zandschulp and was defeated in straight sets.

Toni Nadal took a swipe at Novak Djokovic's actions on the tennis court and explained why his nephew Rafael Nadal has managed to earn "superior respect"

Rafael Nadal's retirement from professional tennis has brought an outpouring of tributes from plenty of current or former players.

Rafael Nadal has issued an eight-word reply to the classy tribute he received from his great rival Novak Djokovic following his retirement. The legendary Spaniard was beaten by Botic van de Zandschulp in the final match of his remarkable career at the Davis Cup Final 8 stage this week.