Considered one of the best players in the sport’s history, Rafael Nadal’s last professional appearance will be for Spain at the Davis Cup finals in November.
The 38-year-old last competed at the Paris Olympics, but ongoing injuries, which have plagued him throughout his career, have drastically reduced his time on the court over the past two years.
“Hello everyone, I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis,” Nadal said in a video posted on social media.
“The reality is that is has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations.
“It is obviously a difficult decision, one that has taken me some time to make. But in this life, everything has a beginning and an end.
“And I think it’s the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have ever imagined.”
Nadal, who skipped last month’s Laver Cup due to fitness issues, had already hinted last year that 2024 might be his final season.
His 22 Grand Slam victories are the second-most in men’s tennis history, behind only Novak Djokovic. He also holds 36 Masters 1000 titles.
Beyond the Grand Slams, Nadal’s career highlights include Olympic gold medals in singles and doubles, and leading Spain to five Davis Cup titles.
Known as the “King of Clay” for his exceptional dominance on the surface, Nadal won 14 of his Grand Slam titles at the French Open, where he lost only four of 116 matches.
He also claimed the US Open four times, while winning Wimbledon and the Australian Open twice each.
His 2008 Wimbledon final against Roger Federer is often hailed as one of the greatest matches in tennis history.
Nadal expressed gratitude to the tennis community and his long-time rivals, acknowledging the countless memories he has shared with them over the years.
He also gave a heartfelt thanks to his team, describing them as friends who have been with him through both highs and lows.
“I am very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup and representing my country,” Nadal added.
“I think I’ve come full circle since one of my first great joys as a professional tennis player was the Davis Cup final in Seville in 2004. I feel super, super lucky for all the things I’ve been able to experience.
“I want to thank the entire tennis industry. All the people involved in this sport, my long-time colleagues, especially my great rivals. I have spent many, many hours with them and I have lived many moments that I will remember for the rest of my life.
“Talking about my team is a little bit more difficult for me because in the end, my team has been a very important part of my life. They are not co-workers, they are friends. They have been by my side at all the times I have really needed them. Very bad moments, very good moments.”
Although Nadal had previously indicated he might continue playing into 2024 if his health allowed, injuries have taken their toll.
After missing much of 2023 due to a hip injury, he returned briefly at the Brisbane Open but was forced to sit out the Australian Open with a thigh injury.
Since then, he has participated in just six tournaments, including the Paris Olympics, where he lost to Djokovic in the second round.
“I leave with the absolute peace of mind of having given my best, of having made an effort in every way,” Nadal said.
Roger Federer, Nadal’s long-time rival, reflected on their iconic battles and the bond they share.
The two shared an emotional moment during Federer’s own retirement in 2022.
Taking to his Instagram page, Federer wrote: “What a career, Rafa!. I always hoped this day would never come.
“Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honor!”
KanyiDaily recalls that Former Manchester United defender, Raphael Varane also announced his retirement from football at the age of 31.
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