Rafael Nadal he arrived in Rome and has already carried out his first training session on the Central Court of the Foro Italico. The Spanish champion played his last match at the Mutua Madrid Open and the home crowd paid him a tribute that thrilled all tennis fans.
In the splendid setting of the Manolo Santana Stadium, five flags were displayed – like the number of titles won by the Majorcan in Madrid – which reproduced the writing: “Gracias, RAFA”.
Madrid pays tribute to Rafael Nadal: Andy Roddick’s emotional comment
In his podcast Served with Andy Roddick, the former American tennis player revealed that he was emotional during the ceremony organized in Madrid.
“I got goosebumps. He entered the pitch as always arranging the bottles, his bag and paying attention to all his details. The crowd was always ready to cheer him on and shouted: ‘Rafa, Rafa, Rafa’.
I am 1000% sure he felt loved and supported this week. He deserved this tribute, it was a celebration of everything he did. The next ceremony was great, we expected it.
His reaction was also perfect”, said Roddick. “Rafa’s preparation – considering what his body can handle – was top notch; as well as the behavior of the public who cheered for him but respected his opponents.
I think what we’ve seen compared to last year is positive: Nadal didn’t give the impression that anything was wrong. I forgot to look for injuries this week and just focused on the way Nadal played.”
