Rafael Nadal’s retirement is uncertain as Spaniard will not have ultimate say in Davis Cup plans

However, the specifics of his goodbye have been unclear, as Nadal previously stated that he would not compete if he did not feel prepared.

David Ferrer, Spain’s captain, has spoken with the 22-time Major champion and his squad about the match lineup. And he said he’d make the ultimate decision.

Ferrer admitted that everything was still up in the air for Nadal’s final match, which might be decided at the “last minute”. The team captain still does not know who will be on his final roster, let alone whether the retiring star will play singles or doubles.

Pablo Carreno Busta has walked out of the Paris Masters, raising concerns about another player. “I think the final team will be known next week,” Ferrer told AS.

“In a few more days, we will unveil the squad. I’ve already informed all of the players that we’ll see following Paris. I believe we will know on Monday or Tuesday.

Ferrer has also spoken with Nadal and his management, but the retired former No. 3 will not make a final decision on the match lineups until he sees everyone in Malaga. He went added, “I’m not sure; I’ll have to see how they train.”

“I chatted with Rafa this week, multiple times. Let’s see how the training is going; I’ve also spoken with his coach, Carlos Moya, and his agent, Carlos Costa.

“And the reality is that Rafa is training well; once I’ve seen the players and assessed their performance, I’ll decide how the singles and doubles will be played. But I don’t know until we’re all together and training.

“Obviously I have an idea of what the team will be like, I can visualise it a little, but well, I can tell you that I won’t decide until the last minute, until we are there.”

Nadal has already stated that he will not compete in the singles unless he believes he can assist his side win. But the ultimate choice will be made by Ferrer, who has “a lot of faith” in his man.

“I have a lot of confidence in Rafa and all the players, but well, especially with Rafa, so we can talk and see his feelings a bit; how he feels or how I see him,” he mentioned.

“In that regard, I have no issues. But, in the end, the captain has to make the decision, and that’s a good problem; having so many options, especially Rafa, who you know can help us at any time; he’s a great competitor, he’s the best player in history that we’ve had; I’m very excited and have a lot of faith that he can help us.”

Spain will meet the Netherlands in their quarter-final match on November 19. If they reach the semi-finals, they will play again on the 22nd, with the final taking place on the 24th.

The current roster includes Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, Carreno Busta, Roberto Bautista Agut, and Marcel Granollers.