Jimmy Connors reveals what he “loves” about Rafael Nadal in retirement tribute

Former world No.1 Jimmy Connors has credited Rafael Nadal’s attitude and style of play on court for the “breakdown” in his body that has forced him to retire.

The eight-time Grand Slam champion “loves” Nadal’s approach and revealed that he “treasures” being compared to the Spaniard.

Nadal will play the final event of his incredible career in the knockout phase of the 2024 Davis Cup Final in Malaga, which will take place from November 19-24.

In an emotional video announcing his decision on social networks, Nadal explained: “The reality is that it has been a difficult few years, especially the last two.

“I don’t think he could have played without limitations. Obviously, it’s a difficult decision, one that took me a while to make.

“But in this life, everything has a beginning and an end. And I think it’s the right time to end a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have imagined.”

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Talking about it Advantage Connors podcast, Connors gave his thoughts on Nadal’s retirement.

“I said many years ago, when it first came out, his style reminded me a lot of the way I played and my attitude towards it,” the American said. “I said he played like he was broken and I know that’s not true!

“He was willing to come out and put it all on the line every time. It didn’t matter what the score was, if he was up or down or whatever, he was going to give it his all until the end. So it’s a breakdown.

“If you play like that, it’s not that other guys don’t play like that, but you can tell some guys like Rafa, compared to (Roger) Federer.

“Federer moved more gracefully around the court, but Rafa was a roller coaster. You know, get down and dirty with him. That’s why on clay, his shirt and socks were dirty. I love that he

“This comparison (between Connors and Nadal) is something I treasure and I hope he feels the same.

“I go back to the way he played. 38, that’s a good innings he’s had. He’s had a good 18-20-year career and everything he’s put into it. 22 Slams and how many other tournaments will go with that.

“So you know, he’s put in his time. He’s done his time and he should be proud of it. Everybody else is feeling the pain of Federer going and now Rafa going, (Andy) Murray, and ‘Djoker’ (Novak Djokovic) is not a spring chicken either. Facts are facts and this is the end of an era.”

After his third-place playoff match against Novak Djokovic at the Six Kings Slam last week, Nadal was asked what he will miss most when he retires.

“I’m going to miss almost everything,” Nadal said. “It has been a dream come true to be able to play for almost 20 years. Have the opportunity to play in the best places in the world. It’s something I used to watch on TV when I was a kid.

“In the end, I realized my dream of becoming a professional tennis player and being successful. I can’t thank you enough for the support and love I’ve received around the world.

“It’s been an incredible energy during every tournament I’ve played. Huge support. From my team and family but also from the whole tennis world.

“It’s been a great pleasure to be around. I’m a lucky guy to be a tennis player. We have a great tour and a lot of great people running the sport. I feel very lucky. I want to thank everyone.”

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