The holiday season is a time of reflection, so we're going to spend a few minutes talking about a memorable era in men's tennis.

When Rafael Nadal retired from the game last week, he left a remarkable two-decade legacy in his wake.

As Stephanie sigh details, Raffa was beloved on the court and off by players and fans alike.

Throughout his career, Rafael Nidal, known by fans as simply Rafa, claimed 92 single career titles, including 22 grand slams and a record 14 French Open titles.

The two-time Olympic gold medalist played his last career match in the Davis Cup last week,

which was held in his home country. Tributes for the Spaniard have poured in ever since, including

from Patrick McEnroe, whom you might recognize from his time as a tennis champ. He's an ESPN commentator

and president of the International tennis hall of fame.

Patrick McEnroe, it's a pleasure to have you on the news hour. You know, I first saw Rafa play

in 2010 at the U.S. Open. And I just remember this guy with a modest demeanor that really belied the fire and intensity of his tennis.

Over the years, you've seen it all. How would you describe his game? And was there a specific

moment when you realized he was going to be one of the greatest?

We were all lucky enough to be blessed to watch him. And I think to me, Stephanie, it was the fact that

Rafael Nadal, as you said, was one of the most intense competitors, maybe the most intense

competitor that the sport of tennis has ever seen, arguably one of the greatest athletes that we've

ever seen. But I think it was his demeanor off the court and the fact that he was so humble

when he talked about his game and he talked about the moment, you really felt that what he said

was so true. When he talked about he wanted to be in the fight, he wanted to work hard. It wasn't

just about the wins and losses. And a lot of athletes say that, but you don't really believe it.

But with Nadal, I really believed that he just loved the fight.

He loved the competition.

Of course, he loved to win.

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