Rafael Nadal with a golden tennis racket

Rafael Nadal played what were likely the final singles matches of his career at the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia last week. 

The legendary Spaniard competed with Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev and Holger Rune at the invitational exhibition event in Riyadh.

All six players who participated earned a guaranteed $1.5 million, while Sinner secured a staggering $6 million for winning the event.

Nadal was beaten by Alcaraz in the semi-finals before losing to Djokovic in the third place playoff.

Following his final on-court meeting with Djokovic, Nadal was presented with a full-size tennis racket made entirely of solid gold.

According to a report by Marca, the gold racket is valued at around £208,000 (approximately €250,000 and $269,555) and weighs three kilograms.

Nadal was appointed as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s tennis federation in January.

Rafael Nadal News

Rafael Nadal gives brutally honest verdict on Saudi Arabia criticism and sportswashing claims

Rafael Nadal did not ‘request’ Paris farewell, claims French tennis figure

Nadal will retire from tennis following the 2024 Davis Cup Finals knockout stage, which will be held from November 19-24 in Malaga.

The 38-year-old had been expected to play doubles rather than singles for Spain, although he has suggested he may not feature at all if he does not feel physically ready.

“Will I be ready for the Davis Cup? Emotionally, yes, that’s for sure; physically and tennis-wise, I still have a month ahead of me,” the 22-time major winner said at a media conference in Saudi Arabia.

“I will prepare, I will try to be in shape to help the team win. If I feel ready and the captain feels the same way, it will be his decision. If I don’t feel ready, I will be the first to step away and see how I can help.

“First, I have to be the one who feels competitive to get into the game, then you can win or lose, that’s part of the sport. If I’m not 100% or if I’m far from winning my match, I won’t go on the court.”

After his third place playoff match against Novak Djokovic in Riyadh, Nadal revealed what he will miss most when he retires.

“I’m going to miss almost everything,” Nadal said. “It’s been a dream come true to be able to play for almost 20 years. Having the chance to play in the best places in the world. It’s something I watched on TV as a kid.

“At the end, I realised my dream to become a pro tennis player and be a successful one. I can’t thank enough the support and love I received all around the world.

“It’s been amazing energy during every tournament I played. Huge support. From my team and family but also from the entire tennis world.

“It’s been a huge pleasure to be around. I’m a fortunate guy to be a tennis player. We have a great tour and a lot of great people running the sport. I feel very fortunate. I want to thank everyone.”

READ NEXT: Jimmy Connors reveals what he ‘loves’ about Rafael Nadal in retirement tribute