MADRID, 11 Dic. (EUROPA PRESS) –
Spanish sport reacted this Saturday in unison to say goodbye to Manolo Santana, tennis champion of four ‘Grand Slams’ in the 60s, with a heartfelt gratitude for opening borders to national sport and guiding future generations with his successes.
The world of tennis especially fired his legend, from Rafa Nadal, from the first to react to the death of “a reference, a friend” and someone “unique”, to the president of the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET), Miguel Diaz.
“Tennis player loved by everyone. Pioneer and forerunner of the successes of our sport and endearing person. On behalf of Spanish tennis, our condolences to family and friends. We will miss you very much, Manolo,” Díaz wrote on his Twitter account .
Through social networks there were many displays of affection towards a Santana who in recent years served as honorary president of the Mutua Madrid Open. At La Caja Mágica, on the center court that bears his name, the former tennis player was acclaimed every season that the ATP Masters 1,000 was played in May.
David Ferrer, who said goodbye at that track in 2019, also thanked him. “You were always the best. Thank you for teaching us to be able to achieve our dream and above all thank you for being someone so special,” wrote the one from Jávea. Feliciano López also recognized him as a “pioneer” and guide, who also shared many hours as director of the Mutua Madrid Open.
Also on the women’s circuit, Garbiñe Muguruza, who closed the year with the title of Master of the WTA, highlighted that Santana was the one who “paved the way for everyone in Spanish tennis.” Conchita Martínez pointed out that the Madrilenian leaves “his legend” and Paula Badosa, in his year of revelation, remembered the pioneer Santana, a champion capable of influencing generations.
Outside of tennis, Real Madrid also wanted to fire an illustrious fan, a Santana who won his title at Wimbledon wearing the Real Madrid jersey. “Manolo Santana is one of the greatest tennis players of all time, as well as a passionate Madrid player and a faithful representative of our values throughout his career,” the white box wrote in a statement.
The president of the Higher Sports Council (CSD), José Manuel Franco, praised Santana for his impact on Spanish sport, a “legend and pioneer” of tennis. Meanwhile, the president of the Spanish Olympic Committee (COE), Alejandro Blanco, dismissed Santana as a “friend of the soul”, who will be “united for life to Spanish sport.”
“Very saddened by the news of the death of Manolo Santana, a tennis legend and a great reference in the sport of our country. My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones,” wrote Pau Gasol on his Twitter, a unique record in the Spanish basketball that also surrendered to the iconic Santana.