Rafael Nadal Confirms Retirement at Age 38
Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros. May 23, 2022. Paris, France. Photo credit: © Miguel Ángel Zubiarrain / RFET.

Twenty-two times Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal announced Thursday his retirement from professional tennis. The Spaniard will represent his country at the Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga one last time in November.

The illustrious career of Spaniard Rafael Nadal will come to a close in Malaga next November when he will make his last appearance at tour level representing his nation at the Davis Cup Finals.

In a video message shared through social media, the 38-year-old visibly emotional, said: “Hello everyone, I am here to let you know I am retiring from professional tennis.

The reality is that it has been some difficult years, the last two especially.

I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations.”

The man, the player, the elite athlete, who has inspired millions of people all over the world with his sportsmanship, leadership, and passion for the sport, outlined it has been “a difficult decision to take, one that has taken me some time to make, but in this life, everything has a beginning and an end.”

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,” he added.

Throughout a legendary career, the Manacor native captured 92 ATP titles, lifting 14 times the Coupe des Mousquetaires at the French Open, a record unmatched.

Since 2021, a 10ft steel statue, capturing one of Nadal trademark signature strokes, stands alongside the “Four Musketeers” at Roland-Garros, paying tribute to the “King of Clay” legacy and unprecedented feat acclaimed on French soil.

On the terre battue, where he feels at home, he owns a 97 percent winning record, higher than any other player at a major in tennis history.

Over the years, the former world number one played 116 matches at the Slam, emerging victorious on 112 occasions, losing just four.

Furthermore, he is a four-time US Open champion, winning the Australian Open twice and crowned a two-time winner at Wimbledon.

In addition, the Spanish player claimed 36 Masters 1000, 2 Olympic gold medals, and helped Spain claim four Davis Cup titles.

Speaking about his upcoming challenge, representing his nation one last time at the Davis Cup, he asserted: “I am very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup and representing my country.

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 Sevilla in 2004.”

Nadal will join the Spanish team, playing its quarterfinal tie against the Netherlands next month.

I feel super, super lucky for all the things I’ve been able to experience.”

In his message, Nadal addressed his family, his team, enduring rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, and the fans, expressing his gratitude.

Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honor.

Everything I have experienced has been a dream come true. I leave with the absolute peace of mind of having given my best, of having made an effort in every way. I can only end by saying a thousand thanks to all, and see you soon.”

Cecilia demartini
Sports Pundit staff writer @ceci_2812
Cecilia is a writer and journalist, passionate about motorsport and tennis.Her articles are published in newspapers and international online publications.

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