The dreaded day for all Rafael Nadal fans worldwide has unfortunately arrived. Nadal, due to his absence, has been ousted from the top 10 in the ATP. Nadal has been out of commission for quite some time, ever since his exit from the 2023 Australian Open. The Spaniard first entered the top 10 in 2005 and stayed at the top for almost 18 years. He was the only player in the ATP’s history to be at the top for so long. Fans of tennis worldwide are disheartened at the news.

Nadal has been dealing with injury-related issues for quite some time. The King of Clay has gone on injury-related breaks before as well. But this marked his first exit from the top. He came close to being ousted in June 2015 as he fell down to number 10. But he was able to keep his spot and climb back up in August 2015. 

Fans commending Rafael Nadal for his grand feat

As the Indian Wells Masters concluded, ATP Tour revealed the new rankings as per points. Carlos Alcaraz reclaimed the top spot as he defeated Daniil Medvedev in the final. With the new ranking points, Rafael Nadal was ousted from the top 10 and currently ranks at 13. 

The news was shared by tennis journalist Ben Rothenburg, who said, “And there it is: After an incredible streak of 934 weeks–falling just a single month short of 18 years–Rafael Nadal has slipped outside the top 10, which he first entered on April 25, 2005.” A sad day for the legend and his fans. Although many praised his feat, other fans expressed their sadness at the event. 

Read more – ‘That Is Absurd’ – Rafael Nadal’s Incredible Ranking Streak Leaves Andy Roddick Shell-Shocked

One fan shared the gif of Messi crying to show his sadness.

Similarly, another fan shared a gif to express their mind.

Another fan shared his misery with an exclamation

Although sad, one user decided to show it with a hilarious edited picture.

One fan simply shared several crying emojis.

Another fan had a similar reaction.

One fan called this the end of an era.

Similarly, another fan called this the end of an era while commending Nadal for this feat.

Rafael Nadal will most likely return for the Monte Carlo Masters and the Barcelona Open. The Spaniard would definitely be looking to break into the top 10 again. His fans and tennis fans in general highly await the return of The King of Clay.

Watch this story – Despite Horrific Failures, Serena Williams’ Ex-Coach Patrick Mouratoglou Spreads Hope on an End to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal’s Dominance