Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has announced his retirement from the sport at the end of this year. The 38-year-old athlete has had an illustrious career, winning 22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 victories at the French Open. However, recurrent injuries have plagued him in recent years, leading to his decision to retire.
Nadal will play his final matches representing Spain in the Davis Cup in Malaga from November 19 to 21. This tournament will mark his last appearance on the tennis court, capping a career in which he has shared the spotlight with icons like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray.
In a heartfelt video statement on social media, Nadal shared, “I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis. The reality is that it has been some difficult years, especially these last two. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations. This decision has not been easy and took me time to arrive at.”
He expressed gratitude for his career, saying, “In this life, everything has a beginning and an end. It feels like the right time to conclude a journey that has been long and far more successful than I could have ever imagined.” Nadal also reflected on his first significant professional joy, which came from playing in the Davis Cup final in Sevilla in 2004, emphasizing how meaningful it is to return for his farewell.
Turning professional in 2001, Nadal won the French Open in 2005 on his first attempt and dominated the clay surface, amassing 14 French Open titles over 18 years. His impressive career also includes triumphs at the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open, establishing him as one of the greats of the game.
Nadal’s 2008 victory over Federer in the Wimbledon final is often lauded as one of the greatest matches in tennis history. He also claimed two Olympic gold medals, spent 209 weeks as the world No. 1, and has been a prominent figure in the sport.
Federer paid tribute to Nadal on Instagram, saying, “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.”
Already honored at Roland Garros with a statue, Nadal’s legacy will be closely tied to his unparalleled success on clay. Unfortunately, injuries have increasingly hindered his performance, including a foot condition that saw him utilize numbing injections during the 2022 French Open.
Despite missing the Australian Open earlier this year, Nadal focused on competing at Roland Garros and the Paris Olympics. He managed to reach the quarterfinals with teammate Carlos Alcaraz in men’s doubles.
Over his remarkable 23-year career, Nadal accumulated 112 wins and only four losses at Roland Garros, made 30 Grand Slam final appearances, and won 92 ATP Tour-level singles titles, as well as four Davis Cup titles.
Concluding his announcement, Nadal expressed appreciation for the people involved in his journey, including fellow players, his team, and the fans who supported him throughout his career. “Everything I have experienced has been a dream come true. I leave with the absolute peace of mind of having given my best. A thousand thanks to you all. See you soon.”