Klaus Johannis decorated Ilie Nastase.

President Klaus Johannis decorated on Tuesday by former great tennis player Ilie Nastase , the day he turned 70 years old.

During the ceremony held at Cotroceni Palace, Ilie Nastase was visibly moved and had tears in his eyes. He received the Star of Romania in rank of Commander. "It's the most beautiful day of my life. Even if it is 70 years, is the most beautiful. The award goes to the heart directly. I was born in this country and here I die! "said Nastase.

The President also gave a speech Johannis who wanted to thank him for his contribution in the development Nastase of Romania tennis.

"We gathered today to recognize and honor the performance and contribution of your undisputed international prestige that I have printed Romanian tennis by providing the highest degree. Thank you on behalf of Romania and on my own because you served dedication reputation Romanian sports abroad. you were born to offer all lovers of sport more than the performance. you were a phenomenon of human nature on the tennis court. Without your tennis would not be what it is today. you will always remain a landmark for Romanian sport and I want your performance to the constitution as an incentive for young generations of sports, "Nastase said Johannis. Ilie Nastase is considered one of the greatest tennis players in history. He is the first worldwide leader in ranking ATP .

In his career , Nastase won a title at Roland Garros and one US Open, and other 56 trophies in singles. Nastase has two Grand Slam finals lost at Wimbledon. in the doubles tournament, Elijah Nastase won 45 trophies, including Roland Garros, Wimbledon and US Open. in team Davis Cup Romania, Ilie Nastase has played three finals.