Retiring Rafael Nadal suffers defeat in Spain’s Davis Cup tie

Rafael Nadal is nearing the end of his career (Manu Fernandez/AP)

Rafael Nadal was unable to conjure a Davis Cup fairytale as he suffered defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp on an emotional evening in Malaga.

The 38-year-old is playing in his farewell tournament having finally accepted last month that his body would no longer allow him to compete at the highest level.