Bautista Agut Feels the Love from Fans, Bids Farewell to Madrid After Opening Loss

By Richard Pagliaro | Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Photo credit: Thomas F. Starke/Getty

Holding a framed photo collection of his career highlights, Roberto Bautista Agut bid an emotional farewell to Madrid today.

The 38-year-old Bautista Agut, who announced 2026 will be his final pro season, fell to Thiago Agustin Tirante, 6-2, 6-4 in his final Mutua Madrid Open match.

Afterward, Mutua Madrid Open tournament directors Feliciano López and Garbiñe Muguruza led the ceremony honoring Bautista Agut.

Fans on Court Manolo Santana showered Bautista Agut with applause in his farewell.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tennis TV (@tennistv)

Though his 12th consecutive appearance in Madrid ended in opening-round exit, Bautista Agut send memories of playing Madrid are among his most treasured tennis moments.

“From a very young age we dreamed of having a tennis career, of playing these tournaments,” Bautista Agut said. “I can say that I have fulfilled my dream, that I have played the best tournaments in the world. I have played and won the Davis Cup with Feli [Lopez] and with my teammates, I have had many achievements.

“But I am left with everything that tennis has taught me, with all the values that by force and necessity this sport has taught me. I’m leaving Madrid, maybe I would have liked to play a little better, to be honest.“