Rafael Nadal bids an emotional farewell to home fans after Madrid Open exit

Rafael Nadal bade an emotional farewell to his home fans after losing to Jiri Lehecka on his final appearance at the Madrid Open.

The great Spaniard is playing his final season on tour and had battled into the fourth round but young Czech Lehecka proved too strong, winning 7-5 6-4 to dash the hopes of a partisan crowd at the Caja Magica.

Nadal has won the tournament a record five times, firstly in 2005 and lastly in 2017, and five banners spelling out 'Gracias Rafa' were unveiled following his defeat just after midnight before he was awarded a special trophy.

"I had the opportunity to play one more time here on this court," said Nadal afterwards. "It was a very special week for me, very positive and very emotional.

"The only thing I can say is ‘thank you’. It’s been an incredible journey that started when I was little. I came to Madrid for the first time in 2003, when the tournament was played indoors.

"The first time I came here feeling competitive was in 2005. It was one of the most exciting wins of my career, still indoors. Ever since, the support has been unconditional from everyone. I cannot thank you enough.

"You have given me a gift for the last 21 years that’s more significant than any grand slam I have won. The emotions of playing in Madrid, in front of the Spanish fans, is something that will stay with me forever."

Nadal had a gloomy outlook about his physical condition before competing in Madrid and even cast doubt on appearing at the French Open, but that now appears much more likely, while his next test is set to come at the Italian Open in Rome next week.

He thrashed 16-year-old Darwin Blanch for the loss of one game then avenged his defeat in Barcelona to 10th seed Alex de Minaur before winning a titanic