Rafael Nadal added a new reason to end 2022 with a smile: the fans chose him for the first time as their favorite on the circuit.

The Spaniard’s victory marked the end of the reign of Roger Federer, who had received the award for 19 consecutive years. It should be remembered that the Swiss retired in September this year playing as a couple with Rafa in the Laver Cup.

“I am super happy to receive the award. It makes me feel good. I cannot thank you all enough for the support not only for this award, but at the same time for all the support I receive in every city and event around the world”, expressed the Spaniard.

“It means the world to me, so I’m looking forward to 2023 to share a lot of positive things again. See you soon! ”, He added in a video shared by the ATP on their social networks.

Despite beginning the year with a five-month inactivity, the experienced 36-year-old tennis player achieved the best start of his career by prevailing in his first 20 appearances. He closed the season in second place in the ranking, with a record of 39-8 and with two Grand Slam titles (Australian Open and Roland Garros).

The ATP also announced that Holger Rune received the Rookie of the Year award, while Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios were awarded the Favorite Doubles Pair of the Year award.

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