Sports Desk, May 1 (EFE).- Rafael Nadal bade an emotional farewell to the Madrid Open on Tuesday after he crashed out in the last 16 losing to Jiri Lehecka in his last appearance in the ATP tournament.
The 22-time Grand Slam singles champion and the winner of a record five Madrid Open titles bowed out with a 7-5, 6-4 defeat to the 30th-seeded Czech.
“Today is an emotional day, of course; today is an unforgettable day in terms of saying good-bye to Madrid, one of the places or even probably the place I have received more love and support all these years,” Nadal said, struggling to hold his tears.
“But my career keeps going, and they have my personal goal,” said Nadal, who had his wife and other family members among the attendees.
The 37-year-old tennis Mallorcan stressed that he had enjoyed the last two weeks on an emotional and sporting level and that he had taken steps forward.
“In terms of body feelings, I was able to play four matches, a couple of tough matches, some matches were tiring, I felt that on match,” he said.
“So, it has been a very positive week, winning three matches, playing four matches at a higher level of tennis, yes, I mean, I enjoyed a lot playing at home, and I leave here with a very positive energy,” he said.
His match with the Czech player lasted two hours and two minutes, ending with a backhand that went outside.
A win would have meant victory number 60 for the Spaniard in Madrid.
But his count will now forever remain at 59 wins and just 15 losses since his first match against Álex Corretja in the Madrid Arena in 2003. EFE
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