Rafael Nadal played his final match at the Mutua Madrid Open and his final match at home in Spain on Tuesday night. The 37-year-old’s farewell run ended with a 7-5, 6-4 fourth-round loss to Jiri Lehecka.
Nadal, who plans to retire this season, had advanced with wins over Darwin Blanch, Alex de Minaur, and Pedro Cachin. However, the 22-time Grand Slam champion needed more than three hours to defeat Cachin and had no days off before facing Lehecka.
That put Nadal in a tough position against the in-form Czech, and Lehecka did not disappoint. He struck seven aces, served at 71 percent, won 89 percent of his first-serve points, and did not get broken to defeat Nadal in two hours and one minute.
“It’s amazing to share a court with such a legendary player,” commented the world No. 31. “It’s a dream come true; I always wished for this to happen. I’m very grateful to achieve such a big moment and all the best to Rafa. It’s kind of bittersweet to have such a nice win in front of all these people who were cheering for him. The energy was amazing.”
There was an on-court ceremony for Nadal following the match.
“It is very special for me,” the five-time Madrid champion assured. “I have had the opportunity to play again on this court that has given me so much. When I left for Barcelona I did not know if I would be able to compete again. It has been an unforgettable week. Honestly the only thing I can do is give thanks.
“The first time I arrived competitively in Madrid, in 2005, it was one of the most exciting victories I have had. To this day it has only been unconditional support and affection from everyone. I can only say thank you.”
Rome and the French Open remain on Nadal’s clay-court schedule, and he is also targeting an appearance at the Olympics–which will be played this year at Roland Garros.
