Andy Murray teases Rafael Nadal in humorous tribute - "I've seen Rafa throwing PlayStation controllers around hotel rooms when he would lose"

Following his retirement at the 2024 Davis Cup in Malaga, Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal received several heartwarming tributes from his colleagues on both the ATP and WTA. Although several were of a more somber nature, retired British star Andy Murray paid his tribute with a bit of levity.

Nadal played his last professional match at the Davis Cup in front of home fans, as he represented Spain during the multinational tournament. Although the former Grand Slam champion left it all on the court, he was unable to defeat Netherland's Botic Van de Zandschulp. After Carlos Alcaraz leveled the score, Spain would lose it's doubles match, leading to their elimination.

Read also

This is how much players can earn during 2024 Davis Cup Finals

Murray pokes fun at Nadal's stoic nature

Subsequently, the Spaniard was showered with video tributes highlighting his illustrious career on tour. Several featured well-wishes from his peers and rivals, including Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray was also among those who honored Nadal with a video tribute. The Brit retired after the 2024 Olympic Games, and was able to commiserate with Nadal as the 22-time Grand Slam champion hung up his racket.

"Hi Rafa, just wanted to send you a quick message to congratulate you on the most incredible career," began Murray. "I’ve always been a huge fan of yours and it has been incredible to watch you, to practice with you, and get the chance to compete against you for all these years since we first met as 13 and 14-year-old kids.
"The passion and intensity you played with, not just on the match court, but on the practice court was something I think all tennis players aspire to and what all tennis fans will remember you for. We’ve also learned so much from you over the years about humility, hard work, and respect for everybody."

Read also

Throwback to when Martina Navratilova expressed reservation at Jennifer Capriati playing on the WTA tour due to her young age

Nadal is known for not showing much negative emotion on court, and has famously never smashed a racket out of frustration during a match. Murray was quicky to point this out, although he added a humorous twist to the tribute.

"You are probably the only tennis player ever to have never thrown a racket in anger, which is incredible," added Murray. "However, this wasn’t the case when you would lose at PlayStation.
"I’ve seen Rafa throwing PlayStation controllers around hotel rooms all over the world when he and his close friend Juan Monaco would lose a late goal to me with his beloved Real Madrid at Pro Evolution Soccer. Anyway, I’m sure your body is looking forward to a well earned rest. Enjoy retirement, mate."