By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Wednesday, February 19, 2025
The tennis world bids farewell to Fernando Verdasco, a former World No. 7 and champion of seven ATP titles. The Spanish sensation closed the curtain on his illustrious career during a doubles match in Doha, partnering with none other than Novak Djokovic.
In a gripping quarterfinal showdown, Verdasco and Djokovic were narrowly defeated by Henry Patten and Harri Hellovaara with a score of 7-5, 6-4.
At 41 years old, Verdasco turned pro back in 2001, amassing an impressive 559 ATP match wins, including three triumphs over Rafael Nadal and four against Djokovic himself. One of his most memorable matches took place during the 2009 Australian Open semifinals, where he engaged Nadal in an epic battle lasting five hours and 14 minutes.
“Today’s match is something you’ll remember for a long time,” remarked Nadal following the nail-biting encounter.
And he was absolutely right.
Despite several injuries that kept him off the tour, Verdasco made the admirable decision to return and conclude his career on the court.
“The emotions are incredibly strong, especially after being out of competition for a year and a half,” Verdasco expressed during a press conference in Doha. “I hadn’t even considered an official farewell until I spoke with him [Djokovic]. I’m thrilled to be able to do this here in Doha.”
Throughout his journey, Verdasco played a crucial role in Spain’s victorious campaigns in three Davis Cup titles, notably clinching the championship point against Argentina’s Jose Acasuso in the 2008 finals. Beyond his Australian Open semifinal run, he reached the quarterfinals of three other Grand Slam tournaments and advanced to the second week at Roland-Garros six times.
