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 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.

Roger Federer's former coach Paul Annacone claimed that sports has never had a greater competitor than the retired Rafael Nadal.

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

Novak Djokovic launched his career in the shadow of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal but has surpassed them both and is widely considered the greatest player of all time.

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

Federer was the first to reach 20 Grand Slam titles by winning the 2018 Australian Open, which was the last Major title of his legendary career. The former Swiss champion was the most loved player by fans in every corner of the planet and his impact on the sport is unparalleled.

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.