Cristiano Ronaldo pays wonderful tribute to 'incredible' Rafa Nadal as tennis star & Real Madrid fan announces retirement

Nadal has been one of the biggest names in sports in the 21st century, if not all-time, and the Spanish maestro announced his retirement from professional tennis at the end of the year after playing in the knockout stages of the Davis Cup. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has struggled over the last year after hip surgery and has now decided to call time on his career at the age of 38. Ronaldo has sent out a heartfelt tribute to the tennis legend, who is also a massive Real Madrid fan.

Under Nadal's retirement announcement on Instagram, Ronaldo wrote: "Rafa, what an incredible career you've had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world. It has been an honour to witness your journey and be able to call you a friend. Congratulations on an amazing career! Enjoy your retirement!"

Real Madrid stars Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr and Lucas Vazquez also sent messages to Nadal under the Instagram post.

Mbappe wrote: "Congratulations on your career Rafa, an example as a player and person. Enjoy your retirement. You will always be a legend."

Vinicius wrote: "LEGEND!!! Congratulations for everything. It has been a pleasure to see you for so long at the highest!! You are an example to all. Thank you for so much!!"

Vazquez wrote: "Congratulations on your career Rafa! You are the greatest example of sports values! Thank you for having made us enjoy tennis so much and representing Spain always! You are a real GOAT"

The record Roland Garros winner revealed that he would be retiring after representing Spain at the Davis Cup in Malaga in November.