Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, will retire from tennis at the end of this season. The 38-year-old will represent Spain in his final appearance at next month's Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.
Nadal has barely played over the past two seasons because of injuries and suggested last year he could retire at the end of 2024. In a video message released on Thursday, Nadal said: "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." Nadal retires as the second-most successful men's singles player of all time, behind only long-time rival Novak Djokovic.
Known as the 'King of Clay', Nadal won the French Open singles title a record 14 times, winning 112 of his 116 major matches at Roland Garros. No player has won as many Grand Slam singles titles at the same tournament. Nadal is also a four-time US Open champion and won both the Australian Open and Wimbledon twice.
He also took Olympic singles and doubles gold and helped Spain win four Davis Cup finals, most recently in 2019. Alongside enduring rivals Djokovic and 20-time major champion Roger Federer, Nadal formed the 'Big Three' that dominated the men's game from the early 2000s and drew in legions of fans.
"What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come," said Federer, who famously cried alongside Nadal when he retired in 2022. "Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It's been an absolute honour."
Nadal's Career - A Story of Success and Resilience
Nadal's journey to the pinnacle of tennis began at a young age. He was aged three when he was introduced to tennis by his uncle Toni, who encouraged him to transition to playing left-handed after seeing how strongly he could hit the ball. He turned professional aged 15 and three years later helped Spain win the 2004 Davis Cup as they beat the United States, with Nadal defeating world number two Andy Roddick. The following year, he began his dominance of the French Open, beating Argentina's Mariano Puerta in the final.
Nadal's five-set win over Federer in the 2008 Wimbledon final - an epic that finished 12 minutes short of five hours - is regarded as one of the best matches in history and one of the pinnacles of their 15-year rivalry. In between those two finals, he won the 2009 Australian Open for the first time with another five-set victory over Federer, and completed the career Grand Slam at the 2010 US Open.
Although he won all four majors, Nadal will forever be synonymous with the French Open, where a metallic statue of him hitting his trademark forehand was built in 2021. From 2005 to 2014, he won nine of 10 Roland Garros titles and then five of six between 2017 and 2022. In 14 final appearances, he was never taken to five sets, beating Federer in four finals and Djokovic three times. Of his four French Open losses, Djokovic defeated him twice with Alexander Zverev this year and Robin Soderling in 2009 the other two men to topple him.
Fittingly, his final major title came at the French Open in 2022, two days after his 36th birthday. Nadal's success and longevity is even more remarkable considering the series of longer-term injuries - affecting his elbow, ankle, knee, wrist, back, hip and abdomen - he dealt with throughout.
The Legacy of the 'King of Clay'
Nadal's retirement marks the end of an era for tennis, and his legacy is sure to be debated for years to come. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, and his dominance on clay is unmatched. But his achievements extend beyond the red dirt. He was a fierce competitor on all surfaces, and he won numerous other titles, including two Wimbledon championships and four US Open titles.
While the 'Big Three' of Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic dominated the sport for over a decade, Nadal's relentless pursuit of victory, his fierce determination, and his unwavering commitment to the game left a lasting impact on the sport and inspired countless players. His retirement is a significant loss for tennis, but it also serves as a reminder of his extraordinary career and his indelible mark on the sport.
Farewell, Rafa: A True Champion's Departure
Nadal's retirement is a reminder that even the greatest champions eventually have to hang up their rackets. His departure marks the end of an era, one that witnessed him ascend to the highest echelons of tennis and capture the hearts of millions. While the sport may be different without Nadal's thunderous forehands and his indomitable spirit, his legacy will live on for generations to come. The 'King of Clay' leaves behind a treasure trove of memories and a legacy that will be cherished by tennis fans worldwide. He is an inspiration to players and fans alike, a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and a love for the sport.
Nadal's final appearance will be at the Davis Cup Finals, where he will represent Spain, a fitting end to a journey that began with his Davis Cup debut in 2004. As Nadal bids farewell, the tennis world takes a moment to reflect on the career of a true champion, a warrior on the court, and a legend who redefined the sport.
