Rafael Nadal to Retire After Injury-Hit Final Season
Rafael Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion and one of the greatest players in tennis history, has announced his retirement from professional tennis. The 38-year-old will bid farewell after participating in next month's Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, Spain.
\"I am here to let you know I am retiring from professional tennis,\" Nadal said in a heartfelt video announcement posted on social media. \"The reality is it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don't think I have been able to play without limitations.\"
Nadal's illustrious career has been marked by incredible success and persistent injuries. With a record 14 French Open titles, two Australian Open victories, two Wimbledon crowns, and four U.S. Open titles, his achievements have solidified his legacy in the sport. He also holds Olympic singles and doubles gold medals and has been a part of four Davis Cup-winning teams.
The decision to retire comes after an injury-plagued season. In early 2023, a hip injury at the Australian Open required surgery and limited his appearances throughout the year. He missed the French Open and faced fitness concerns that kept him out of the U.S. Open and Laver Cup.
Nadal was a surprise selection for the Davis Cup Final Eight in Malaga, taking place between November 19 and 24. His last competition was at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics in July, after which he hoped to return for a final hurrah next year. However, the Spanish tennis icon has chosen to conclude his career in front of a home crowd.
\"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,\" added the former World No. 1.
Finishing his career representing Spain feels fitting for Nadal. \"I am very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup and representing my country,\" he said. \"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. I feel super, super lucky for all the things I've been able to experience.\"
Nadal will link up again with four-time major champion Carlos Alcaraz, after the duo played together at Paris 2024. His return to the Davis Cup stage offers fans one last opportunity to witness his passion and dedication to the sport.
Throughout his 23-year career, Nadal has been no stranger to overcoming adversity. Yet injuries in recent years have limited his play, with only 23 matches over the last two seasons. His determination and resilience have inspired fans worldwide.
As Nadal prepares to bow out in front of a cheering home crowd in Malaga, the tennis world reflects on the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His unmatched skill on clay courts, fierce competitiveness, and gracious sportsmanship have made him a beloved figure across the globe.
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22-time Grand Slam champ Nadal to retire after injury-hit final season
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