Thu Oct 17 22:01:41 UTC 2024: ## Tennis Legend Rafael Nadal to Play Final Matches in Riyadh Before Retirement
**Riyadh, Saudi Arabia** – Tennis legend Rafael Nadal will grace the courts of Riyadh this week for one of his final appearances before retirement, joining fellow tennis greats Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, and Carlos Alcaraz at the lucrative Six Kings Slam.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who announced his retirement plans after the upcoming Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, will participate in the exhibition tournament, which offers a record-breaking prize pool. Each player is guaranteed a minimum of £1.12 million, with the winner taking home a staggering £4.5 million.
The three-day event, which began on Tuesday, features a star-studded lineup. World No. 1 Sinner defeated Daniil Medvedev in the opening match, while Alcaraz triumphed over Holger Rune.
Thursday’s matches will see Djokovic face off against Sinner, while Nadal will take on his fellow Spaniard Alcaraz. Alcaraz has spoken about his admiration for Nadal, calling him an idol and a major influence on his career.
“He is still my idol. He is a really important person for my life and career,” said Alcaraz. “One of the reasons why I became professional. I don’t know if playing him again is a privilege or it’s tough for me. But I will try to enjoy it. I’m gonna go full power.”
Nadal, who has won a record 14 French Open titles, will end his illustrious career in Malaga, but not before taking part in the Six Kings Slam. The tournament marks his first appearance since the Paris Olympic Games, where he played doubles with Alcaraz.
The Six Kings Slam is available to watch live on Sky Sports Tennis, streaming service NOW and the Sky Sports app.
First Piper 