In the semi-final of the Six Kings Slam, the exhibition tournament played in Saudi Arabia, Rafael Nadal played for the first time since the 2024 Paris Olympics. Against Carlos Alcaraz, he lost 3-6, 3-6 and whoever retires must now focus on their ultimate goal: the Davis Cup. A competition that he will only compete in if he feels ready.
Last week, Rafael Nadal made a dreaded outing by announcing he would retire as a Tennis player at the end of the season. All he has left is Coupe Davis to compete in official competition with Spain. After 22 Grand Slam titles, including 14 Roland-Garros, Rafael Nadal will bow out.
“I made my decision a few weeks ago”
After his semi-final lost against Carlos Alcaraz during the Six Kings Slam, Rafael Nadal reconsidered his decision to retire, in comments reported by We Love Tennis : « I made my decision a few weeks ago, the truth is that it took me a while, but after the Olympics I had a few weeks to think, to realize certain things and answer certain questions that I allowed us to see that it was the right decision today. »
“If I’m not 100%, I won’t go on the field”
A retirement he is ready to take before the end of the Coupe Davis : « Will I be ready for the Davis Cup? On an emotional level, yes, for sure; on a physical and tennis level, I still have a month ahead of me. I will prepare, I will try to be in shape to help the team win. If I feel ready and the captain feels the same way, it will be his decision. If I don’t feel ready, I’ll be the first to walk away and see how I can help. You can win or lose, that’s part of sport. If I’m not 100% or if I’m far from winning my match, I won’t go on the field. »
Related News :