FILE - In this Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011, file photo, Spain's King Juan Carlos leaves after the official opening of the Parliament, in Madrid. Carlos plans to abdicate and pave the way for his son, Crown Prince Felipe, to take over, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy told the country Monday, June 2, 2014, in an announcement that was broadcast nationwide. The 76-year-old Carlos oversaw Spain's transition from dictatorship to democracy but has had health problems in recent years. (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza, File) (The Associated Press)
PARIS – The king of Spain has abdicated his throne, and the "King of Clay" wants to say thanks for everything.
King Juan Carlos announced Monday he will step down in favor of his son. A few hours later, Rafael Nadal won his record 63rd match at the French Open to reach the quarterfinals for the ninth time in 10 years.
Nadal says "the only thing I can do is to thank his majesty, the king, for everything he did all these years."
The king, who turned 76 in January, said Monday in a nationwide address that 46-year-old Crown Prince Felipe is ready to succeed him and will "open a new era of hope."
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