Rafael Nadal gave the clearest indication yet that his career might be coming to an end when he stated he is unlikely to participate in the US Open.
The Olympic men’s doubles careers of Nadal and Alcaraz came to an end on Wednesday when they lost 6-2, 6-4 against American fourth seeds Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram.
Nadal’s 14-time French Open victory left a lasting impression on Court Philippe Chatrier, but it’s unlikely that Roland Garros will be the only tournament where he never plays again.
When asked if he will travel to the US, where preparations for the US Open are already underway, the 38-year-old responded: “It looks like not but I’m going to let you know soon. For me now, I can’t give you a clear answer, I need some time. But for me, it looks difficult.”
Asked about his relationship with Alcaraz, Nadal cast more doubt on his future and said: “If my age will be 10 years less, we’re going to create a beautiful relationship on the court and we’re going to share a lot of beautiful moments together.”
Nadal added: “But that’s not going to happen. We’ll see if I keep playing the normal tour. But of course, I will be supporting him from home and wishing him all the very best every single time. Even if I keep playing or not, I love tennis. I had set the Games as a goal since the beginning of the year and that cycle is over. Now I’m going home, I’m disconnecting, and when I know what my next step will be, with or without a racket in my hand, I’ll tell you.”
Rafael Nadal in 2024
Currently the world no.161, Rafael played his last match on the 29th of July when he was overcome by world no.2 Novak Djokovic 6-1 6-4 in the 2nd round in Paris (draw).
This year Rafael has achieved an overall 12-7 match record. Rafael Nadal’s best accomplishment of the present year was getting to the final in Bastad.
Nadal has scheduled to play next at the U.S. Open (U.S. Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 26th of August.
Rafael Nadal |
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