Rafael Nadal Retires: When King of Clay casually scored a double hat-trick against Iker Casillas

Spanish tennis superstar Rafael Nadal has announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 38. The 22-time Grand Slam winner has said that he will play the last match of his career in the Davis Cup finals in November this year. Nadal shared the news via social media on Thursday. 

Also Read: ‘It’s the Right Time’: 22-Time Grand Slam Champion Rafael Nadal Announces Retirement at Age 38

When Rafael Nadal showed he could have been a brilliant footballer had he not picked tennis

In a thrilling display of athleticism and camaraderie, Rafael Nadal stole the show in a charity football match against Spanish football legend Iker Casillas in 2008. The event, organized by the Red Cross to raise funds for their fight against malaria, brought together two of Spain's greatest sports heroes for a fun-filled afternoon of football, friendship, and fundraising.

Rafael Nadal's team, ‘Friends of Rafa,’ faced off against Iker Casillas' ‘Friends of Iker’ in an indoor football match that will be remembered for years. The tennis champion's impressive skills on the pitch left the crowd in awe, as he scored an incredible double hat-trick against the esteemed goalkeeper.

The first goal was a masterclass in agility and skill, as Rafael Nadal nutmegged one player and pivoted past another to give his team the lead. The second goal was a stunning long-range effort from near the half-way line, showcasing Nadal's impressive power and accuracy. But it was the third goal that left everyone speechless, a beautifully composed finish between two defenders and past Iker Casillas into the back of the net.

Also Read: India drawn against Togo in Davis Cup World Group I Play-offs; AITA says it's home tie

Iker Casillas, widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history, was left smiling in admiration of Rafael Nadal's impressive display. The football legend's team, which included other Spanish sports stars like Fernando Alonso and David Ferrer, put up a good fight, but Nadal's brilliance on the pitch proved unbeatable. Nadal's team comprised his coach Carlos Moya, Barcelona legend Samuel Eto'o, Real Madrid superstar Raul Gonzalez, and rally driver Carlos Sainz Sr.