Serena Williams said it had been an honour to witness Rafael Nadal ‘s tennis journey and that he would leave the game a “lasting legacy” following the Spaniard’s defeat in the final match of his glorious career.

Alcaraz tried to extend Nadal’s career on Tuesday night. Carlos Alcaraz won the second singles tie 7-6 6-3 against Dutch No.1 Tallon Griekspoor. But the Wimbledon champion and Marcel Granollers then lost the deciding doubles 7-6 7-6 Van de Zandschulp and Wesley Koolhof just after midnight local time.

Young Spanish tennis sensation paid tribute to compatriot and legend Rafael Nadal, who bowed out of professional tennis following Davis Cup quarterfinal tie against Netherlands, saying that it has been a blessing to be able to live through his entire career,