Many fans thought the Spanish star would call it a day after the Olympics but he could now be set to follow Federer with his retirement plan
Rafael Nadal may be on the verge of ending his illustrious career (Image: Getty).
Rafael Nadal may decide to retire from tennis at the Laver Cup this year, following in the footsteps of fellow tennis legend Roger Federer.
The ‘King of Clay’ has not yet stated if he will give from tennis after competing in the Olympic doubles competition with fellow countryman Carlo Alcaraz.Finally, Nadal and Alcaraz’s journey came to an end as they lost to Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek 6-2, 6-4 in Paris.
Many fans thought that Rafael Nadal’s Olympic Games loss may be his final match. The 14-time French Open champion thanked the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd after the match. But after the game, Rafael Nadal remained elusive about his future, and a void in his schedule is already stoking rumors that his September appearance at the Laver Cup could be his final professional encounter.
For Nadal, the Laver Cup holds special significance as it was there that his longtime friend and adversary Federer ended his career. In addition, Nadal partnered with the Swiss pro for the decisive match, which ended in a doubles defeat to Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe.
Nadal was asked if he would travel to the United States to train for the US Open following his loss in Paris. The 38-year-old hinted that he needed some time to think about his next move, but he declined to clarify what those actions will be.
Though it doesn’t seem like it, I’ll let you know as soon as I do. I need some time to think things through before I can clearly respond to you. But it seems hard to me,” he remarked. “I’ll see if I continue to play the regular tour.”
Then, the Spanish sensation—who has won more titles at Roland-Garros than any other player—briefly alluded to the possibility that the Olympic defeat would be his last tournament and showed his love for the venue where he solidified his legacy.
“It’s an unforgettable feeling and emotions if that’s the last time,” he remarked. “Every moment I’ve been on court, they have shown me love and support.” To feel that in especially here is really, really unique.”
Given their close friendship, it’s possible that Federer would come out of retirement to play with Nadal at the tournament, honoring the nice gesture that Nadal made for him when he announced the end of his legendary career at the Laver Cup two years ago.
Federer and Nadal teamed up for the Swiss star’s final match at the Laver Cup in 2022 (Image: Getty)
The Laver Cup is held at the Uber Arena in Berlin, Germany from September 20–22. Many fans predict that the 22-time Grand Slam winner will call his quits at this event, and former world No. 1 Andy Roddick agrees, saying it may be an appropriate time for Nadal to step away from the game.
He stated: “The Laver Cup could be a celebration” in a podcast interview. I hope he makes it back to the major finals. I’m not sure. This seems like it might be the end.
It remains to be seen if Nadal would decide to retire in Berlin, but as his career approaches its twilight, he did openly admit following the Olympics that he is no longer playing for medals and results. Nadal has stated that he is no longer interested in the glory of victory, but rather “experiences” and the feelings that come with competing.
“At this point in my career, I play more for feelings than for results,” he remarked. “I achieved far more success in my career than I had ever imagined. It’s about appreciating diverse experiences, in my opinion.”
