Toni Nadal, after the announcement of Rafael Nadal's retirement: "It is a sad but right day"

The news of the day, of the week and of the month, not only in tennis, but in sports worldwide, has been the official announcement of Rafael Nadal, confirming his professional retirement after disputing the Davis Cup finals in Malaga.

Reactions to the statement of the legendary Spanish tennis star have not been slow in coming. One of the most expected was that of Rafa's uncle, Toni Nadal, a fundamental part in the development of his career to become one of the best players in history, for many the best.

In direct statements to TVE, Toni Nadal gives his first impressions on Rafa's retirement: "It's a sad day. In the end we knew that sooner or later he had to announce it. It's sad because you stop doing what you've been doing for so long, and that has brought you so much happiness. It is sad but also a good day".

"What makes him special is that he has won 22 Grand Slams, he has been very successful in what he has dedicated himself to and because he has been able to combine victory with good behavior," adds Toni about his nephew Rafa's qualities that have made him a legend. "He has been able to transmit values on and off the court, a way of doing things that has helped him to give a good image of himself beyond the sport he has practiced".

"I sent him a message and told him congratulations, you had a great career. He hasn't answered me yet, I guess he will be very entertained. Tomorrow I'll see him at his academy and we'll talk," Toni Nadal continued. "I was fortunate to have a player who was always willing to fight, to listen."