"The Davis Cup is the most important trophy of my life" - When 18-year-old Rafael Nadal was 'truly happy' after winning first title with Spain

By Pritha Ghosh

Modified Nov 19, 2024 02:46 GMT

Nadal Davis Cup — Davis Cup Finals 2024 is Rafael Nadal's final professional tournament | Image Source: Getty

Rafael Nadal first tasted Davis Cup glory with Spain in 2004, thrusting him into the spotlight even before he claimed his maiden Grand Slam at the French Open in 2005. Reflecting on the triumph, he later shared that it felt like the "most important trophy of his life."

Team Spain defeated Team USA, the most decorated team in Davis Cup history with 32 titles, to secure the championship. Nadal played a pivotal role in the triumph, defeating American Andy Roddick in a hard-fought match with a scoreline of 6-7(6), 6-2, 7-6(6), 6-2, which led to his side's 3-2 victory in the final.

Following the victory, the 22-time Major champion shared his happiness with the media. He said the triumph felt like a relief, particularly after navigating through some "tough moments" during the season.

"I personally have to say that this is my first Davis Cup, of course. I've just arrived to the team and we've just won. This is quite a lucky thing for me. I feel very lucky because my debut was with such a wonderful team. We have had our tough moments during the season, and we managed to overcome them," Nadal said.

"I feel really, really happy because I do love this type of team tournament, so I've truly enjoyed it. For me, the Davis Cup is the most important trophy of my life. I'm just truly happy to be here and have won," he added.

About the author

Pritha is one of the driving forces behind Sportskeeda's tennis & baseball coverage, serving as an assistant content manager and editor. What began as a casual escape from her tiring biotechnology degree course in early 2022 has blossomed into a passion she loves, cherishes, and breathes every day.

Pritha’s love for the sport was spawned by her dad who showed her clips of "GOAT" Steffi Graf’s matches. Despite a thwarted dream of playing professionally due to injury, she finds solace in reporting the sport, while also mentoring other writers to ensure every article is error-free and top-notch. She double checks credible sources, such as the tournament/player handles and big tennis media outlets, and gives proper credit where required.

Pritha's journey at Sportskeeda is marked by nearly 2000 articles and close to 12 million views, with the "dream-come-true" moment of having her article shared by Chris Evert serving as a highlight of her career. A lifelong Wimbledon fan, Pritha also adores Rafael Nadal, Elena Rybakina, and Naomi Osaka.

When she's not seeking unique angles to elevate tennis coverage at Sportskeeda, she loves to channel her inner astrophysics "nerd" by exploring new sci-fi series and movies. A big Lionel Messi, Lewis Hamilton, and Randy Orton fan, she is always ready to engage in sports conversations anytime, anywhere, albeit not without a cup of coffee.

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Edited by Pritha Ghosh