Rafael Nadal, a renowned 22-time Grand Slam champion, has announced that he will retire from professional tennis following next month’s Davis Cup Finals. The 38-year-old athlete plans to end his remarkable yet injury-plagued career in what promises to be an emotional farewell.
Throughout his 23-year career, Nadal set a record with 14 French Open titles. However, a significant hip injury, which required surgery, limited his participation in tournaments this year, leading him to hint at retirement.
Nadal’s inclusion in the Davis Cup Final 8, set for November 19-24 in Malaga, comes as a surprise, considering he last competed at the Paris Olympics in July and withdrew from both the US Open and Laver Cup due to fitness issues.
Reflecting on his career, Nadal shared in a video on social media, “It’s been some difficult years, these last two especially. I’m very excited that my last tournament will be the Davis Cup representing my country. It’s closing the circle because one of my first joys was the final in Sevilla in 2004.”
Injuries have plagued Nadal, with the hip issue first appearing during the 2023 Australian Open, subsequently causing him to miss the French Open and necessitate surgery. Over the past two seasons, he managed to play only 23 matches.
Despite returning to his favorite venue, the Spanish Open, this season, he faced an early exit at the hands of Alexander Zverev and declined a celebratory farewell in hopes of one last chance to compete next year.
Known as the ‘King of Clay’ for his impressive 112-4 win-loss record at the French Open, Nadal’s last victory at Roland Garros took place in 2022.
Nadal is set to retire two years after his longtime rival, Roger Federer, with Novak Djokovic now the last remaining member of the ‘Big Three’ still competing at an elite level.
Federer publicly honored Nadal on social media, expressing his wish that Nadal would never announce his retirement. He praised Nadal’s incredible career and legacy.
In his farewell message, Nadal expressed gratitude to his family, team, and especially his uncle Toni, who was his coach for most of his career. He acknowledged their support in overcoming significant challenges.
To his fans, Nadal remarked, “I can’t thank you enough for what you have made me feel. Everything I have experienced has been a dream come true. I leave with the absolute peace of mind having given my best.”
Next year, Nadal is expected to receive a heartfelt tribute at Roland Garros, along with celebrations for his career at the Davis Cup held in Spain.