WATCH: Rafael Nadal cuts a carefree figure as he celebrates passionately on golf course days before dropping retirement announcement

Rafael Nadal was seen hitting the golf links on Sunday, October 6, 2024, just four days before announcing his retirement from professional tennis. Even with his upcoming departure from the sport, the Spaniard's competitive spirit remained evident, as he turned a "friendly" round of golf into another display of his skillful drive.

Nadal's love for the sport has been well-documented throughout his career. The Spaniard has participated in several high-profile golf events during his off-seasons. Some of his notable achievements include winning the Balearic Golf Championship earlier this year.

In an Instagram post shared on October 11, Ana Patricia Botin, the Executive Chairman of the Santander Group, posted pictures and videos of Nadal playing golf.

"This past Sunday @rafaelnadal proved to us, once again, that even outside the tennis courts is the best. In order not to lose a "friendly" round of golf, he needed a miracle and he got it! A hit from the level of the best of the Masters or any major," Botin wrote.

In her post, she reflected on their relationship dating back to 2007, when the Spaniard told her he would soon be World No. 1—a promise he fulfilled a year later. Botin reminisced about how the Spaniard's character, both on and off the court, has remained consistent.

"Since 2007 - when he was No. 2 in the world and clearly told us he was going to be No. 1- I've been able to prove how he never gives up and always gives his best. Signing autographs or taking photos with everyone who approached him at the World Cup Final in South Africa and all the events on the bank, always smiling," she added.

Botin also expressed her confidence in the former World No. 1’s post-tennis journey, predicting that his next chapter would be filled with just as many "magic strikes" as his time in tennis.

"Rafa, on Sunday we saw the same winning spirit you had 18 years ago. I’m sure this new stage will be filled with many more "magic" strikes," she continued.

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Rafael Nadal to retire at the Davis Cup Finals

Rafael Nadal at the 2024 Paris Olympics (Image source: Getty)

Rafael Nadal announced his retirement on Instagram on October 10, marking the end of his tennis career after participating in seven tournaments since his comeback earlier this year.

The Spaniard's last official tennis match took place at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic in the singles second round. He reached the quarterfinals in doubles alongside compatriot Carlos Alcaraz.

The 38-year-old is preparing to retire after competing in the Davis Cup Finals next month in Malaga. The Spanish legend will join his national team in the knockout rounds, alongside Alcaraz, Roberto Bautista Agut, Marcel Granollers, and Pablo Carreno Busta, with David Ferrer leading the squad as team captain.