Rafael Nadal’s relatively low-key retirement ceremony at the Davis Cup has been defended by the head of the International Tennis Federation as being dictated by the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s wishes.

Rafa returned to Mallorca on Wednesday, pronouncing his retirement with a big smile on his face. Never dreaming about achieving so much between 2005 and 2022, the Spaniard closed an important chapter of his life. At 38, he will focus on his family and tennis Academy while sharing his knowledge with the upcoming stars.

Rafael Nadal retires from professional tennis after a 23-year career like no other. On a night of gratitude and grief, Spain led the world in saying "Gracias Rafa".