Rafael Nadal unexpectedly brightened Alizé Cornet’s final days on the tennis court with a kind gesture. With the clay-court Grand Slam approaching, the 34-year-old is ready to say goodbye to her professional career. Cornet is set to make her 20th appearance in the main draw, most likely as a wild-card entry, after a successful career. Before that occurs, she was taken aback by a surprise that left her both thrilled and apprehensive. The 22-time Grand Slam champion planned an incredible present for Cornet, which left her crying when she saw what Nadal had in store for her.

In a recent interview with French television station CANAL+, Alizé Cornet confirmed her retirement plans, signaling the end of an era in the tennis world. In the same conversation, she was shown a video of the 37-year-old ATP great, which surprised her. In that video, Nadal said, “I just want to congratulate you for an amazing career. I just want to wish you all the very best and whatever you decide to do in the future, you maybe for sure doing very well. It’s your day enjoy, and all the best for your future.” 

As she watched the touching homage, Cornet couldn’t overcome emotion and sobbed. It was a disconcerting reminder of the profound influence she has had on the tennis world. However, while the WTA star has already announced her retirement, but Nadal on the other hand, is hanging there to give his career, a try. Later, there was a moment when the 34-year-old expressed her respect for the 22-time Grand Slam victor. In addition, she posted on Twitter in 2022, saying, “I just cried @RafaelNadal you are my idol.”

With her six career WTA singles championships, the French tennis player has cemented her place as a formidable force. Her three remarkable wins over Serena Williams in 2014, when the renowned American tennis player was ranked #1 in the world, are among her amazing accomplishments. Additionally, Cornet’s adventure with tennis began when she was 4 years old, her first time on the court and she fell in love with the game.

But in her early years, she pursued other interests besides tennis. In addition to pursuing her blossoming tennis career, Cornet pursued her acting ambition. Her appearance on the intriguingly named “Terre Battue” episode of the French television series “L’Instit” (The Teacher) was a noteworthy occasion.

Not only that, just a few weeks ago, she enjoyed her own fangirl movement when she witnessed the 22-time Grand Slam champion practice on the tennis court.

Cornet shares a fangirl moment on social media 

The French WTA player provided a glimpse of her experience watching the 37-year-old Spanish tennis icon practice from the stands on Instagram, expressing her complete delight. In the moment she cherished, Cornet’s film showed Nadal hitting his trademark forehands with power and accuracy.

She captioned the Instagram video “First thing in the morning when you get to Indian Wells,” which expressed her astonishment and delight at witnessing Rafael Nadal play up close at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on Cornet receiving a message from Nadal? Do let us know in the comment section below.