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When MS Dhoni Shared His Admiration For Rafael Nadal As Tennis Icon Announces Retirement

Rafael Nadal and MS Dhoni ( source: @gigicat7_/x.com, @CricCrazyJohns/x.com)Rafael Nadal and MS Dhoni ( source: @gigicat7_/x.com, @CricCrazyJohns/x.com)

Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal has officially announced the date of his retirement from professional tennis. In an emotional video shared on his social media platform on Thursday, October 10, Nadal confirmed that the Davis Cup final in Malaga, scheduled for November, will be his last competitive appearance. 

The announcement marks the end of an illustrious career spanning over two decades, during which he won 22 Grand Slam titles, securing his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

MS Dhoni Shared His Fondness For  Rafael Nadal

Nadal's fierce competitiveness and relentless tenacity have garnered admiration from fans and athletes alike, including Indian cricket icon MS Dhoni. Known for his calm demeanor, Dhoni has often expressed his respect for Nadal's unwavering spirit. 

In a 2017 interview on Tekplay's YouTube channel, Dhoni named Nadal as his favorite tennis player, praising the Spaniard’s resilience on the court. 

"Somehow, I have always been a No. 2 supporter. Not consciously, but it just happens. You know, I was an Andre Agassi supporter and he was No. 2 that time. Steffi Graf, she was No. 2. Then Nadal No. 2. Of course, he went on to become the World No. 1. I think his never [say] die attitude even when it's the last point, he's losing, he'll still give it its best and that's what is something that is very important - not to throw in the towel until the result is there. That's why Nadal, for me, he never throws in the towel and gives his best whatever the situation may be," Dhoni went on to add in praise of the tennis great.

Nadal's retirement announcement has evoked a wave of emotion from his global fanbase, many of whom have followed his career since he won his first Grand Slam title in 2005. 

Over the years, his battles with formidable rivals such as Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have captivated tennis enthusiasts and contributed to what many consider the golden era of men’s tennis.