Rafael Nadal had an “emotional day” playing what was likely to be his final professional match in his home country, losing 7-5 6-4 against Czech Republic’s Jiří Lehečka at the Madrid Open.

Rafael Nadal rolled in his first match at what may be his final Madrid Open, but his status for the French Open remains uncertain.

Rafael Nadal left Madrid feeling better about his fitness than he did when he arrived, and is now planning to play in Rome while continuing his preparations for the French Open.

Rafael Nadal had to pause for a few moments, visibly emotional, while addressing the crowd after his loss in the fourth round at the Madrid Open.

Rafael Nadal defeated Alex de Minaur in straight sets in the second round at the Madrid Open on Saturday for his first ATP Tour win vs. a top 20 opponent since November of 2022.

Rafael Nadal said he would not play in Paris if he arrives there feeling the same way that he is feeling ahead of his debut in Madrid this week.

Rafa is coming off an emotional win, but must now pick himself up and find a way to outduel a talented young ball-striker.

Rafael Nadal’s run at the Madrid Open came to a screeching halt after he was outgunned in a straight-sets loss by Jiri Lehecka. The Czech, seeded 30th, fired off 33 winners to his opponent’s 14 and broke Nadal’s serve in either set to claim a 7-5 6-4 victory in the last 16, dashing the hopes of a partisan crowd at the Caja Magica.

Today is a day filled with multiple emotions for Madrid fans. The post 'Will Stay With Me Forever' "“ Rafael Nadal Pens Down a Soul-Stirring Farewell Note for Home Fans Following Madrid Open Exit appeared first on EssentiallySports.

The 37-year-old 22-time Grand Slam singles champion Rafael Nadal -- winner of a record five Madrid Open titles -- bowed out 7-5, 6-4 to the 30th-seeded Czech Lehecka.