Rafael Nadal has given a fresh retirement hint after failing to win a medal in his last Olympics.
Rafael Nadal has hinted that his “very good experience” at the Paris Olympics could be his final performance in tennis, as he considers retirement. The Spanish athlete had already arrived in Mallorca and was greeted by his father, Sebastián, who stated that it was “time to rest”.
Speaking to IB3 TV regarding his future, Nadal stated that he will spend time studying his year in tennis to determine how likely he is to return to the sport. The 38-year-old failed to compete for medals at his previous Olympics, losing handily to Novak Djokovic – who went on to win his first gold medal – in the singles and reaching the quarterfinals with double partner Carlos Alcaraz.
After the dust had subsided, Nadal stated: “It is time to recuperate, to take some time, and in a few days to review everything that has transpired over the last few months and to figure out what I truly want.
“The tournament is unlike anything else on the circuit, and I had a great time. It has been a pleasant, wonderful week; it has not finished as I had hoped, but this is sport. I have not been at the level required to compete for medals, and our doubles team has been unsuccessful.”
After their quarter-final setback last week, the 22-time major winner reflected on his achievements with doubles partner Alcaraz, saying, “We have had a fantastic relationship, we have been happy, with intensity on the court, but it has not been possible.” That’s how it is. There is no need for further analysis. I just need to figure out when I’ll be able to fly home.”
The Spaniard has previously won two gold medals, one in singles at the 2008 Beijing Games and the other in doubles with Marc Lopez at the 2016 Rio Games. He conceded that singles was always going to be difficult, but he believed he and Alcaraz had a chance to medal in doubles.
While Nadal and Alcaraz had a successful run at the Paris Olympics, they were knocked out in the men’s doubles quarterfinals by American combination Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram.
Nadal’s retirement appears closer than ever following his Olympics performance, with the Spaniard hinting that he may not even play the year’s last major, the US Open. The 38-year-old said, “It looks like not, but I’ll let you know soon.” I can’t give you a clear response right now; I need some time. But, to me, it seemed impossible.”
Over his 23-year career, the Spanish tennis ace has won 22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Open wins and two Wimbledon championships. He also won two Australian Open titles and four US Open championships.
