A look at 'The Doctor' Valentino Rossi's career

Record-breaking motorcycle racer. Charismatic showman. Italy’s most popular athlete for years.

Italy’s rider Valentino Rossi waves to his fans after a fourth free practice session for Sunday’s San Marino Moto GP grand prix at the Misano circuit, in Misano

Valentino Rossi, who competed in his final race on Sunday at the Valencia Grand Prix, was all that and more.

Rossi, of Italy, celebrates his second-place finish in the Grand Prix of the Americas MotoGP motorcycle race, on April 23, 2017, in Austin, Texas

Nicknamed “The Doctor,” Rossi became famous for his elaborate post-race celebrations, featuring wigs, fake sponsors and interactive skits with his fans.

Rossi of Italy, reacts after winning the Dutch Grand Prix in Assen, northern Netherlands, June 30, 2007

Rossi was so popular in Italy that Ferrari offered him a chance to test in Formula One and at his first opportunity in 2006 he was competitive with Michael Schumacher and faster than several other drivers in the four-wheeled sport.

Rossi rides his bike in Phillip Island, Australia, Oct. 3, 2008 during the first free practice session ahead of the 2008 Australian Moto GP. Record-breaking motorcycle racer.

At his final race, video messages for Rossi were shown on the television broadcast, including those from actors Tom Cruise and Keanu Reeves as well as athletes Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Lewis Hamilton, Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo.

Rossi poses for a photo after finishing second in the qualifying session for Sunday’s MotoGP Japanese Motorcycle Grand Prix at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit in Motegi, north of Tokyo, Oct. 10, 2015.