Rafael Nadal sent a brief, heartfelt reply to Novak Djokovic after his long-time rival missed his emotional farewell at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga on Friday

Rafael Nadal has announced his retirement from professional tennis, with the Spaniard's great rival Novak Djokovic having previously opened up on their relationship

Rafael Nadal sent a brief, heartfelt reply to Novak Djokovic after his long-time rival missed his farewell at the Davis Cup Finals. When Nadal initially announced his retirement plans last month, the 24-time Grand Slam champion vowed to be in Malaga for his final match.

The 37-year-old from Belgrade will be one of the favorites at the next Australian Open, for which he will prepare with great dedication by also playing a tournament in the first week of January. Nole's focus will be totally directed towards the Grand Slam tournaments and the Davis Cup, to try to replicate the historic triumph obtained in 2011.

Rafael Nadal's retirement from professional tennis has brought an outpouring of tributes from plenty of current or former players.

There are not many players who can say they have defeated all three of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in Grand Slam matches. Andy Murray, Stan Wawrinka, Tomas Berdych and Jo-Wilfred Tsonga are the only four tennis stars to have achieved that remarkable feat.

Roger Federer's former coach Paul Annacone claimed that sports has never had a greater competitor than the retired Rafael Nadal.

Rafael Nadal has issued an eight-word reply to the classy tribute he received from his great rival Novak Djokovic following his retirement. The legendary Spaniard was beaten by Botic van de Zandschulp in the final match of his remarkable career at the Davis Cup Final 8 stage this week.