Lleyton Hewitt fell to David Ferrer in the second round of the Australian Open last night, and with it came the end of a legendary singles career. Ferrer advanced with a 6-2 6-4 6-4 win.

Hewitt, who remains in the doubles draw at Melbourne, won 30 career titles, including the 2001 U. S. Open and 2002 Wimbledon. Known for his “never say die” intensity on the court, the Australian left the game with the same style that he showed throughout his 20 years as a pro.

“I left nothing in the locker room. My whole career I've given 100%,” he said. This was evident in the second set as he fought to regain a break of serve and attempted to even the set. Hewitt would battle fiercely, forcing seven break opportunities, but to the Spaniard’s credit, Ferrer was too strong as he held back the attacks and took the set. This was the tipping point of the match, and it set a tone of inevitability that it would likely be the end of the road for Hewitt.

Ferrer had nothing but praise for the 34-year-old afterwards. “I never had idols, but he is one for me. I have a T-shirt signed by him from seven years ago. I have a museum in my house, and that is in it. It's the only T-shirt of a tennis player I have,” he said.

Hewitt has made clear his love for Australia and will remain active in helping to develop their players. He will become captain of their Davis Cup team after his doubles run with Sam Groth is complete. As a player, he was part of two Davis Cup title teams.

Filled with emotion after the match, Hewitt underscored the love he has for his country. “Playing for Australia has always been my biggest honor. Getting the number 89 gold jacket off John Newcombe and Tony Roche when they picked me to play Davis Cup was one of the great days of my life.”

Roche would sum up Hewitt’s new role, saying “He’s still fiery, but he’s also matured, and now he’s got the job of helping the next generation do the same.”

The Adelaide native will return to the court with Groth on Friday as they compete in the doubles draw. Meanwhile, Ferrer advanced to the third round, where he will face American Steve Johnson next.