Rafael Nadal sent a brief, heartfelt reply to Novak Djokovic after his long-time rival missed his emotional farewell at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga on Friday

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have been fierce rivals on the tennis court throughout their careers - but the Serbian has explained why the pair could never be friends.

The 37-year-old from Belgrade will be one of the favorites at the next Australian Open, for which he will prepare with great dedication by also playing a tournament in the first week of January. Nole's focus will be totally directed towards the Grand Slam tournaments and the Davis Cup, to try to replicate the historic triumph obtained in 2011.

Rafael Nadal's tennis career is now over, but Roger Federer and many others have been called out for not being there for the Spaniard's final match

The decision to use Rafa in singles did not produce a positive result, indeed that choice was decisive for the elimination of Spain. Despite practicing very well in the weeks leading up to the event, the 22-time Grand Slam champion failed to play his best tennis against Botic van de Zandschulp and was defeated in straight sets.

Rafael Nadal has issued an eight-word reply to the classy tribute he received from his great rival Novak Djokovic following his retirement. The legendary Spaniard was beaten by Botic van de Zandschulp in the final match of his remarkable career at the Davis Cup Final 8 stage this week.

Roger Federer writes a heartfelt letter to Rafael Nadal ahead of the Spaniard’s retirement, celebrating their iconic rivalry and cherished moments on and off the court. From their epic Grand Slam battles to emotional doubles matches,

The who's who of the tennis world was expected to attend Rafael Nadal's Davis Cup farewell in Malaga, but they were nowhere to be seen when the tennis great played his final match.