Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion and one of tennis’s all-time greats, has announced his retirement from the sport after the Davis Cup finals in November. In a video shared on social media, the 38-year-old Spaniard reflected on the challenges he has faced in recent years, saying, “It has been some difficult years, these last two especially.
” His career, spanning over two decades, has been marked by legendary rivalries with the likes of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, as well as a fierce style of play that earned him global respect. Nadal will conclude his professional journey with 92 titles and more than $135 million in prize money, a testament to his dominance on the court.
Nadalâs final appearance will come in the Davis Cup, where he aims for a fifth title, representing Spain, just as he did in 2004 when he first won the tournament as a teenager. Known for his dominance on clay, especially at Roland Garros where he secured 14 of his Grand Slam titles, Nadalâs legacy goes far beyond the records.
His remarkable achievements, including winning all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold, have cemented his place in tennis history. Despite a career plagued by injuries, Nadalâs determination and resilience were unmatched, making him a true icon of the sport.