Former world number one Juan Carlos Ferrero has called time on his singles career following a straight-sets defeat to Nicolas Almagro in the first round of the Valencia Open.
The injury-plagued 32-year-old announced last month that he would retire after competing in his home event.
Ferrero will now join up with David Ferrer in the doubles, which begins on Wednesday, before hanging up his racquet for good.
"It's been a long time since I enjoyed myself so much on a tennis court," said an emotional Ferrero following his defeat to Almagro.
"I simply want to thank everyone for all their support, not just this year but throughout all the years I have played here.
"It's always been a very special tournament for me and this year even more so."
Ferrero won the French Open in 2003.
Robert Summerscales
