Roberto Bautista Agut says adios to Madrid: ‘My dream came true’ | ATP Tour

Roberto Bautista Agut

Bautista Agut says adios to Madrid: ‘My dream came true’

Spaniard was competing at the Masters 1000 event for the final time

April 22, 2026

On Day One at the Mutua Madrid Open, a Spanish great said adios.

Roberto Bautista Agut received an emotional farewell on Wednesday in the Manolo Santana Stadium, where the crowd supported him on an emotion-packed day. The Spaniard was competing for the final time on the clay of Madrid, bringing an end to a story of commitment, heart and complete respect for the sport. The Caja Magica gave a standing ovation to one of its all-time home favourites, an ever-present at the event in the Spanish capital.

At 38, Bautista Agut dedicated his final stand to the city of Madrid, surrounded by his family, many friends, and a crowd that had supported him edition after edition of the event. The result on the clay, where Argentina’s Thiago Agustín Tirante cruised to a 6-2, 6-4 victory, was secondary at such a highly anticipated and emotional farewell.

“When we are young, we dream of having a tennis career and playing in these tournaments”, said Bautista Agut, who was presented with a commemorative plaque on the clay by directors Feliciano Lopez and Garbine Muguruza. “My dream came true, I have played in the best tournaments in the world. I won the Davis Cup with Feli and my teammates. I have achieved many things, but what I cherish most is everything tennis has given me, the values this sport has taught me out of necessity.

“These are moments you don’t really consider while you’re still a player. When you decide it’s time, you start to get used to the idea. There were a lot of emotions on the court today, it wasn’t an easy match to play. This year I wanted to compete as a local and do well. It’s hard to believe, but even at 38, the nerves never go away. It was amazing, I enjoyed a beautiful farewell with my family and team on court”.

Over the years, Bautista Agut became one of the most beloved players among the Madrid fans, who became used to watching his great matches. With countless memories, including 26 appearances at the Caja Magica, the former No. 9 player in the PIF ATP Rankings progressed until he became one of the most important figures in Spanish tennis this century. From reaching the semi-finals on his first outing in the main draw, a real statement of intent at the tournament, the Spaniard made Madrid a must on his calendar year after year.

“Here in Madrid I have had very special moments as an athlete, I am very grateful to the tournament”, the Spaniard said. “The semi-final I reached in Madrid in 2014 was the result that catapulted me up the rankings. I broke into the Top 15, it was a turning point in my career. Perhaps my most emotional moment as a tennis player was the Davis Cup final in the Caja Magica. I have fond memories of those times. This court is very special to me”.

Bautista Agut, who just a few days ago announced his decision to end his career at the end of the 2026 season, is yet to confirm his calendar. His feelings will guide his final steps on the ATP Tour.

“I’ll keep playing and take it as it comes”, explained Bautista, whose plans include competing in the ATP Masters 1000 in Rome and Roland Garros in the coming weeks. “Last year, after the injury I picked up at the US Open, I was out for six months without earning points. I still have a good ranking, but I need to play now if I want to keep extending my year”.

The Spaniard’s decision was accelerated by the needs of his body, his battles around the world having taken their toll. Now, Bautista Agut’s priority is clear; to enjoy his last tournaments as if they were his first, giving one last gift to the sport that has given him everything.

“It’s a tough decision,” Bautista Agut said. “I spoke first with my wife, who always supports me. After suffering the most serious injury of my career, nearly six months out, in February I couldn’t see a solution. I didn’t feel good on court. After Indian Wells I felt a bit better, I competed without limping. The injury has worn me down a lot, it’s drained a lot of my energy. I tried to come back but couldn’t. I’ve been doing this for many years, so I thought it was a good time to go, because I’m still at a good level and physically fit enough to have a full year with good matches”.

Editor’s note: This story was translated from ATPTour.com/es