Rafael Nadal, a record 14-time men’s singles champion, will miss the French Open for the first time in 19 years due to a hip ailment. The 36-year-old Spanish player, who has 22 career major titles, also declared his intention to retire following the 2024 campaign.
“I didn’t make the decision, my body made the decision. To play Roland Garros is impossible,. Next year will probably be my last year. That is my idea. If I keep going now I won’t be able to make it happen.”
“I will make my last year not just a party; I will try to compete at the highest level and give myself the option to compete and win tournaments during the clay swing.”
Rafael Nadal in 2023
Currently ranked no.14, Rafael played his last match on the 18th of January when he surrendered to world no.55 Mackenzie Mcdonald 6-4 6-4 7-5 in the 2nd round of the Australian Open (draw).
This season the Spaniard has managed to achieve an overall 1-3 record.
Nadal is scheduled to play next at the French Open (French Open). He will start to play the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 28th of May.
