Today, October 10, 2024, Rafael Nadal, one of the best tennis players in history, announced his official retirement from professional tennis. The iconic Mallorcan player will hang up his racquet after the Davis Cup Final 8 to be held in Malaga from November 19 to 24. In an emotional video, Nadal shared with his followers this difficult decision, putting an end to a career that has marked a before and after in world tennis.
The last years: a road full of obstacles
The last two years have been especially difficult for Nadal, who has barely been able to compete due to recurring physical problems. At 38 years of age, the tennis player has struggled with various injuries, most notably a hip operation that has limited him considerably. In 2024 he was only able to play 19 matches, with a balance of 12 wins and 7 losses. In 2023, he was barely able to play four games, hinting that the end of his career was near. “The reality is that the last two years have been difficult and I have not been able to play without limitations,” Nadal confessed in his message. With his voice cracking, the player explained that, although it has been a tough decision, “everything has a beginning and an end” and considers that this is the right time to close the cycle.
A farewell in the Davis Cup
The scenario chosen to say goodbye could not be more significant: the Davis Cup. Representing his country in this competition has always been something special for Nadal, and closing his career defending the colors of Spain fills him with illusion. “It makes me very excited that my last tournament is the Davis Cup Final and representing my country,” said the tennis player. The first great joy of his career was precisely in the Davis Cup in Seville in 2004, when, at the age of 18, he defeated the then world number two, Andy Roddick. Nadal has been a fundamental part of the Davis Cup success for Spain, winning a total of five titles. Now, in Malaga, he will be looking to add a sixth to his already impressive haul, which would also be the seventh victory for Spanish tennis in the history of the competition.
The legacy of a champion
Rafael Nadal bids farewell with numbers that speak for themselves: 92 titles, 22 of which are Grand Slam titles, as well as Olympic gold medals in singles and doubles, and a record of 1,080 wins against 227 losses. He is the undisputed king of clay, with 63 titles on this surface, including 14 Roland Garros. His effectiveness on clay is almost unmatched, with a 90% win rate (484-51). Beyond the numbers, Nadal leaves an indelible legacy in the sport. His competitive spirit, his humility and his ability to overcome adversity have made him a benchmark, not only in tennis, but in the world of sport in general. “I feel super lucky for all the things I have been able to experience,” reflected Nadal in his farewell message, thanking the tennis industry, his teammates and, especially, his great rivals, with whom he has shared countless memorable battles.
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The unconditional support of their environment
Nadal did not forget his team, those people who have accompanied him in every step of his career. “Talking about my team makes it a little bit more difficult for me,” he confessed emotionally. For him, his team has not only been a work group, but “friends” who have been by his side in good times and bad. From his coaches to his doctor and his agent, they have all played a crucial role in his success, and Nadal wanted to acknowledge their importance in his professional life. But if there is one thing that stands out in the Mallorcan’s life, it is his relationship with his family. “Family is everything to me,” he said with tears in his eyes. From his mother, who has made sacrifices for him, to his wife Mery, with whom he has shared 19 years of life. “You have been my perfect traveling companion,” he told her, thanking her for all the support he has received. He also mentioned the joy his son has brought him and the unconditional support of his sister and his father, who has been a source of inspiration for him.
A temporary farewell
Although Nadal officially hangs up his racket in Malaga, it has already been confirmed his participation in an exhibition in Riyadh on October 17, where he will be part of the event dubbed ‘Six Kings Slam’. In addition, it is speculated that in the near future he could play roles within the tennis world. The Laver Cup has shown interest in having him as captain of the European team, sharing the task with his great friend and rival, Roger Federer. Nadal’s dream has always been to retire on the court, and at the Davis Cup in Malaga he will fulfill that wish. His fans will be able to see him compete for the last time, and although his farewell will be an emotional moment, his legacy as one of the best sportsmen in history is more than assured.
