PARIS: Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion and one of tennis’ greatest players, on Thursday announced his retirement from professional tennis after next month’s Davis Cup Finals. The 38-year-old Spanish legend, whose career has been both remarkable and injury-plagued, will conclude his playing days during the November 19-24 Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga.
Nadal, who holds a record 14 French Open titles, previously hinted at his retirement due to a persistent hip injury that required surgery. This injury has severely limited his appearances in 2023, and although he was a surprise selection for the upcoming Davis Cup, his final farewell on the court was officially confirmed on Thursday.
“It’s been some difficult years, these last two especially,” Nadal said in an emotional video shared on social media. “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.”
Nadal’s career has been shaped by his determination to overcome injuries. He sustained his latest hip injury during the Australian Open in early 2023, forcing him to miss both the French Open and several other major tournaments, including the US Open and the Laver Cup. The Spaniard has played just 23 matches over the past two seasons.
Known as the ‘King of Clay’ for his dominance on Roland Garros’ red clay courts, Nadal boasts a jaw-dropping 112-4 win-loss record at the French Open. His last triumph in Paris came in 2022. Despite his injury struggles, Nadal returned to Roland Garros this season, but was defeated in the opening round by Germany’s Alexander Zverev.
Nadal’s departure will mark the end of an era in tennis, following the 2022 retirement of his great rival, Swiss maestro Roger Federer. With Serbian Novak Djokovic remaining as the last active member of the ‘Big Three,’ the tennis world will bid farewell to yet another icon of the sport.
Federer led the tributes to Nadal, sharing his thoughts on social media: “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!”
Nadal expressed gratitude to his family, his team, and his longtime coach and uncle, Toni Nadal, for helping him navigate the challenges of his illustrious career. “Thanks to him, I have also been able to overcome many situations that have been difficult in my sporting career,” Nadal said.
To his fans, Nadal offered a heartfelt message: “I can’t thank you enough for what you have made me feel. Everything I have experienced has been a dream come true.”
