Rafael Nadal's cousin gushes over Spaniard and Novak Djokovic's "incredible" emotional embrace after final battle at Six Kings Slam

Rafael Nadal's cousin Marta reacted to the Spaniard sharing a hug with his long-time on-court rival, Novak Djokovic after their match at the Six Kings Slam held in Riyadh. After losing to Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in their respective semifinals, Nadal and Djokovic played each other in the third-place playoff on October 19.

Novak Djokovic was able to power through in his match against Nadal, defeating him 6-2, 7-6(5) to claim third place at the exhibition event. Following their match, a video of both players sharing a hug made rounds over the internet.

A clip of this heartwarming moment was later posted by Tennistv on Instagram with the caption:

"Emotional scenes. Djokovic triumphs over Nadal and seals their career long rivalry with a hug."

This video was later re-shared by Rafael Nadal's cousin, Marta Nadal Vives, on her Instagram story, where she expressed her love for the moment as she wrote:

"Increible🥺😍, " Marta wrote.

Nadal announced his retirement on October 10, stating that the 2024 Davis Cup Finals will be the last tournament of his career.

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Novak Djokovic opens up about his experience with Rafael Nadal on court

Following his win against Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic had kind words for the Spaniard during the post-match interview. The Serb said that it was an 'honor' for him to share the court with the 22-time Grand Slam winner.

Recalling their first match together, Djokovic hailed Nadal as an incredible athlete and said (as quoted by SkySports):

"I don't know where to start with Rafa. An amazing career. I could speak all night. It has been an honour to share the court with you. I go back to the very first match we played and who would know we would be standing here almost 20 years later, playing 60 times. I have the utmost respect for you. Incredible athlete, incredible person," Djokovic said.

He further detailed his 'intense' and 'incredible rivalry with Rafael Nadal and remarked on the 'amazing legacy' the Spaniard was leaving behind.

"The rivalry has been incredible, very intense, so I hope we will have the chance to sit on the bench somewhere, have a drink and reflect. I know how much sacrifice [there has been]. It is an emotional day, so don't leave tennis, man! Stay with us! You have left an amazing legacy," he added.

In response, Nadal praised his Serbian rival-turned-friend for helping elevate his game throughout his career and said:

"Novak, you helped me go over my limits for 15 years. I will probably not be the player I am [without you]. I wish you the best of luck for the future," Rafael Nadal said.

The four-time Davis Cup winner will make his final appearance in the sport in November at Malaga, representing Spain.