‘Pride of a Whole Country’ – Fernando Alonso Leaves Compatriot Pau Gasol Huge Words of Appreciation

Pau Gasol features among the best European players to step foot in the NBA. The Spaniard, who many know for his exploits with the Los Angeles Lakers, called time on a decorated basketball career earlier today.

His announcement on social media drew well wishes from millions, which included fellow Spaniard Fernando Alonso.

Fernando Alonso wishes Pau Gasol on Twitter following retirement announcement

Gasol made his NBA debut in 2001, when the Atlanta Hawks drafted him as the third overall pick in the draft. However, he joined the Memphis Grizzlies after the Hawks traded him for Julius Sharif Abdul-Rahim.

That year, Gasol won the Rookie of the Year award as he displayed incredible talents in his power forward position. After seven seasons with the Grizzlies, he moved to the Los Angeles Lakers. Here, he would forge an incredible partnership with Kobe Bryant, who many regard as one of the best to have ever played the game.

Lakers Pau Gasol hugs Kobe Bryant late in the 4th quarter as Nuggets Carmelo Anthony looks on in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals at the Staples Center Tuesday. (Photo by Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

With the Lakers, Gasol won two NBA world championships and became one of the most recognisable players in the league. After 23 years of playing professional basketball, Gasol hung up his shoes with a message on social media which read, “Dear basketball, thank you for everything.”

Querido baloncesto, gracias por todo.

Dear basketball, thank you for everything.

Estimat bàsquet, gràcies per tot.

pic.twitter.com/I6TemPrA5T

— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) October 5, 2021

Alonso replied to this tweet from Gasol with a message written in Spanish. During the message, Alonso thanked him for his work and wished him the best. He wrote, “Thanks @paugasol. Thank you for everything you have given us (and the early mornings watching TV!).

“An example at all times, on and off the track. Pride of a whole country. We love you a lot and I wish you the best in the next chapter, which I am sure will be successful! Idol.” (Quotes translated by Google)

Gracias @paugasol . Gracias por todo lo que nos has regalado (y las madrugadas viendo la tele!). Ejemplo en todo momento, en la pista y fuera de ella. Orgullo de todo un país. Te queremos un montón y te deseo lo mejor en el próximo capituló que estoy seguro será exitoso! Ídolo https://t.co/k9GShgh9Ta

— Fernando Alonso (@alo_oficial) October 5, 2021

READ MORE: Kobe Bryant’s Old Emotional Tribute To Pau Gasol Will Make You Cry

Alonso will race with Alpine F1 in 2022

While Gasol retired from his sport aged 41, Alonso won’t be doing the same at his age. Earlier in this season, the two-time F1 world champion signed a contract extension with Alpine which will see him take to the track next year.

Formula One F1 – Russian Grand Prix – Sochi Autodrom, Sochi, Russia – September 23, 2021 Alpine’s Fernando Alonso ahead of the Russian GP REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov

While the 40-year-old knows his future, he looks determined to continue his fine form this season. With 58 points in 15 races so far, Alonso will look to secure more points as the midfield battle continues to intensify.

WATCH STORY: From Cristiano Ronaldo to Shaquille O’Neal: When Other Athletes Mingled With F1 Stars

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