RAFAEL NADAL KING OF TENNIS

2018 US Open R1 Rafael Nadal vs. David Ferrer  6/3 3/4 (Ret.)

Next opponent - Vasek Pospisil 

It was an emotional moment for the Spaniards in Arthur Ashe Stadium, as Ferrer was attempting to reproduce the magic that helped him to the semi-finals here in 2007 and 2012. But despite leading by a break in the second set, Ferrer could not continue due to a injury, forcing him to retire for the first time in 208 Grand Slam matches.

"I knew that it was impossible finish the match. I tried two more games. Finally I decided to retire because it's worse to play and break it, break everything," Ferrer said. "Of course I'm sad because it's my last Grand Slam. I was enjoying playing the match against Rafa. I was playing good. But anyway, I am proud with myself, with my career. It's not a problem."

Nadal told ESPN on court, "I am very, very sorry for him. He is one of my closest friends on tour. We've shared amazing moments together... and he's one of the greatest players our country has ever had." (via ATP)

Photos: USTA; Getty Images; AP; EPA; AFP; Anadolu Agency; BPI; IconSportswire; FotoSport; Abaca

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