Cristiano Ronaldo shows true class with special message for Rafael Nadal after tennis icon's retirement

The 38-year-old admitted that he had been struggling with his body for the past few years and felt now was the right time to retire.

"The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially," he said.

"I don't think I have been able to play without limitations.

"It is obviously a difficult decision and one that has taken me some time to make.

"But, in this life, everything has a beginning and an end.

"And I think it's the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have ever imagined."

Nadal's announcement prompted an outpouring of support from his fans all over the world.

His announcement video was watched over five million times on X within just two hours.

Ronaldo was one of those to catch the news of Nadal's retirement and issued a touching message on Instagram to his close friend.

"Rafa, what an incredible career you have had!" Ronaldo wrote.

"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!

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Nadal is a well-known fan of Real Madrid and was regularly spotted in the stands watching Ronaldo during his time at the Bernabeu.

There's even been some suggestion over the years that Nadal would be interested in replacing Florentino Perez as Madrid president one day.