Marin Cilic brought up Andy Murray and Roger Federer as he shared a heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal.
The Spanish star ended his career at this week’s Davis Cup Finals, joining Murray and Federer in retirement.
And the 2014 US Open champion admitted it was tough to see the Big Four era end as he reflected on his emotional memories with Nadal.
Last month, Nadal announced that he would retire representing his country at the Davis Cup. Spain had been drawn to face the Netherlands in the first quarter-final of the week in Malaga.
As the day of their tie approached, Nadal’s colleagues and rivals came out to pay tribute to him. Roger Federer penned a tear-jerking letter to his old foe while Serena Williams dressed up in Nadal gear and sent her well-wishes in a video message.
Cilic has now become the latest player to share his memories of competing on the tour with the 22-time Grand Slam champion. Cilic was one of the few players to win a Major during the Big Four’s period of dominance, lifting the 2014 US Open trophy.
And the Croatian tennis star confessed that he’d been hit hard seeing the greats of the game retire. “Dear @rafaelnadal It has been an utmost privilege to see you show your greatness through so many years, day after day,” the former world No. 3 wrote on Instagram.
“Carrying yourself like a champion, fighting like a champion, playing like a champion. Your virtues are the ones to be desired in any athlete.”
Cilic was able to challenge the likes of Nadal, Federer, Murray and Novak Djokovic when they were in their prime. And he’s sad to see their era draw to a close.
He continued: “I can’t believe that this era is coming to an end – Roger leaving, Andy leaving, now you – it felt like this era was going to last forever.
“You can be immensely proud of what you have achieved, and how many kids, amateurs, and pros you have inspired along the way. Your legend will live for years to come.
“I will take with me beautiful memories of watching you play, competing against you, and being inspired to get better every single day to be able to challenge you.
“Wishing you a lifetime of happiness- you truly deserve it. Enjoy it and all the best!”
Nadal lost his singles match when he faced Botic van de Zandschulp in the first match of Spain’s tie against the Dutch team, before the Netherlands went on to win the tie 2-1. The 38-year-old had an incredible 29-1 Davis Cup record before their duel – losing his first match in the team competition before winning 29 in a row.
After his streak came to an end, he said: “By the way, it’s in some ways good maybe if that was probably my last match, nothing happens. I lost my first match in the Davis Cup, and I lost my last one. So we close the circle.”
