Rafael Nadal has announced that he will retire from professional tennis after the Davis Cup final in November.
The 38-year-old Spaniard, who won 22 Grand Slam titles including 14 at the French Open, revealed the news in a video message posted on X.
He said: “Hello everyone. I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis.”
Nadal, the Wimbledon champion in 2008 and 2010, has struggled with various injuries over the last couple of years and recently missed out on a medal at the Paris Olympics.
Mil gracias a todos
Many thanks to all
Merci beaucoup à tous
Grazie mille à tutti
谢谢大家
شكرا لكم جميعا
תודה לכולכם
Obrigado a todos
Vielen Dank euch allen
Tack alla
Хвала свима
Gràcies a tots pic.twitter.com/7yPRs7QrOi— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) October 10, 2024
Nadal retires as the second-most successful men’s singles player of all time, behind only long-time rival Novak Djokovic.
He added: “The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations.
“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.
“I am very excited that my last tournament will be the Davis Cup representing my country. It’s closing the circle because one of my first joys was the final in Sevilla in 2004.”
Nadal was part of a golden era of men’s tennis alongside Djokovic, Andy Murray and Roger Federer.
Federer was quick to pay a warm tribute to his friend and great rival.
“What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come,” the Swiss 20-time grand slam winner wrote on Instagram.
“Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour.”
Nadal in numbers
112 – victories at Roland Garros
4 – defeats at Roland Garros
30 – grand slam final appearances
81 – consecutive matches won on clay from April 2005 to May 2007
209 – weeks spent at world number one
