"A boy who had a dream of being great did everything possible without losing his way"- Rafael Nadal's uncle Toni on Spaniard's legacy

Rafael Nadal's uncle Toni recently commented on the Spaniard's legacy. The former World No. 1 retired from tennis after competing in the knockout stages of the 2024 Davis Cup Finals.

Nadal represented Spain against the Netherlands in the quarterfinals of the Davis Cup Finals. He played a singles match against Botic van de Zandschulp, ultimately losing 4-6, 4-6. Spain was unable to defeat the Dutch, resulting in a 1-2 loss in the quarterfinal tie. This defeat marked the end of the 22-time Grand Slam champion's illustrious career.

Recently, while speaking to ATPTour.com, Rafael Nadal's uncle Toni expressed that he was very happy with everything his nephew has accomplished throughout his playing career.

“I don’t like the word proud too much. I feel very happy about everything that he’s achieved, obviously on court because of everything he won. But, above all, the most notable thing, which really pleases me as a relative, is seeing how a boy who had a dream of being a great tennis player did everything possible without losing his way,” Toni said.

Toni stated that witnessing Nadal as a young boy dreaming of becoming a great tennis player and working tirelessly to achieve that goal was pleasing.

The 63-year-old said he was happy to see the Spaniard remain humble despite his numerous career achievements.

“He always kept his feet on the ground. Staying competitive within the limits of correctness. That’s definitely what has pleased me the most. I’ve loved seeing how much people have appreciated that,” he added.

Toni believes that the 22-time Grand Slam champion can transition into his post-retirement life with a great deal of pride, as he has earned immense respect from people worldwide.

“Of course he can go with his head held high. After everything he achieved, having been there for many years, he has gained the immense respect of most people. He has left a good image at all the tournaments he participated in. I think it is clear he can go with his head held high,” he said.

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Rafael Nadal: “I just want to be remembered as a good person and a kid that followed their dreams"

Rafael Nadal at Davis Cup Final [Source: Getty]

Following Spain's defeat in the knockout stages of the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, Rafael Nadal reflected on his career and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion expressed that he wants to be remembered as a "good person" from a small village in Mallorca who grew up surrounded by a loving family that supported him throughout his career.

“The way I would like to be remembered more is, like a good person from a small village in Mallorca that had the luck that he had. My uncle that was a tennis coach in my village when I was a very, very small kid, and I had a great family that had the chance to support me in every single moment," he said.

The former World No. 1 said that in addition to being known as a good person, he wishes to be remembered as a young boy who was able to follow his dream.

“Just a kid followed their dreams, worked as hard as possible to be where I am today. I just want to be remembered as a good person and a kid that followed their dreams and achieved what I have achieved," he added.

Rafael Nadal retired with 22 Grand Slam singles titles to his name, won five Davis Cup titles with Spain and also secured two Olympic gold medals among many other achievements.