Twenty-two-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal suffered a 7-5, 6-4 defeat to Czech Jiri Lehecka within the fourth spherical of the Madrid Open on Tuesday, marking his remaining look at a match he has received 5 occasions.
In a match lasting simply over two hours, Lehecka dashed Nadal’s hopes of reaching his one hundredth Masters 1000 quarterfinal. Nadal, who has been battling harm, confronted a troublesome problem from the rising star, who was enjoying in solely his second match since January.
Nadal has introduced that he plans to retire after the 2024 season.
“I’m happy. It was a very special week for me, very positive in every way. I was able to play again on a court that has given me a lot, also on an emotional level,” the 37-year-old Nadal mentioned in an on-court interview in entrance of an emotional crowd.
“It has been unforgettable, and I can solely say ‘thanks.’ It has been an unimaginable journey. It’s very troublesome, however life and my physique have been sending alerts to me for a very long time.
“I have been fortunate to turn my passion into my job. I am privileged,” he mentioned earlier than organizers honored him with a trophy and unfurled banners paying tribute to his 5 Madrid titles.
With the rating stage at 5-5 within the first set, Thirtieth-seeded Lehecka broke serve after which held his personal to take the lead.
Breaking once more within the first sport of the second set, the 22-year-old secured the win to achieve the quarterfinals, the place he’ll face Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev on Thursday.
“It’s amazing. For me to share the court with such a legendary player is a dream come true. I always wished to have this happen. I’m very grateful to achieve such a big moment,” Lehecka mentioned.
“All the best to Rafa. It’s kind of bittersweet to have such a nice win in front of all these people cheering for him. The energy was amazing, it was like I was in another universe. This was something I’ve never experienced before in my life on a tennis court.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com
