Rafael Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, has announced that he will retire from professional tennis after the upcoming Davis Cup Finals, marking the end of a remarkable career often overshadowed by injuries. The Spaniard, known for his record 14 French Open titles, hinted at retirement earlier this year following hip surgery that limited his competition in 2023.
At 38 years old, Nadal’s participation in the Davis Cup, scheduled from November 19-24 in Malaga, comes as a surprise since he last competed at the Paris Olympics in July and was unable to participate in the US Open and Laver Cup due to fitness concerns.
Reflecting on his career, Nadal shared in a social media video, “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.”
Throughout his career, Nadal has faced numerous injuries, including a hip issue sustained at the Australian Open in early 2023, which prevented him from playing in the French Open that year. He has only competed in 23 matches over the last two seasons.
This season, Nadal returned to his favorite tournament, but was eliminated in the opening round by Alexander Zverev. He declined a celebratory farewell, hoping instead for a final chance to play next year.
Often referred to as the “King of Clay,” Nadal boasts an astonishing 112-4 win-loss record at the French Open, with his latest victory occurring in 2022. He will retire two years after his longtime rival, Roger Federer, leaving Novak Djokovic as the only active player among the ‘Big Three’ of men’s tennis.
Federer paid tribute to Nadal on social media, expressing disbelief at the announcement: “What a career, Rafa… Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour!”
In his farewell, Nadal expressed gratitude to his family and his team, particularly his uncle Toni, who coached him for much of his career. “I believe that thanks to him, I have also been able to overcome many situations that have been difficult in my sporting career,” he said.
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.”
Nadal is expected to receive heartfelt tributes at Roland Garros next year, along with a special celebration of his career during the Davis Cup on home soil.