Martina Navratilova has spoken out about Rafael Nadal’s tennis future, revealing that she would “give in” if she were in his position.
The former world number one acknowledged that Nadal’s decision is determined by “how much desire there is,” but added that the 38-year-old’s fight with his body may make it unnecessary for him to continue.
Nadal last competed at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris at the end of July and has yet to pick an end date for his illustrious career.
The Spanish icon lost 6-1, 6-4 against his great opponent and eventual gold medalist Novak Djokovic in the second round of the Olympics, which were held at Stade Roland Garros.
After two victories, Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz were defeated 6-2, 6-4 by Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram in the quarter-finals of doubles.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion will next compete in the 2024 Laver Cup, which will be hosted in Berlin from September 20 to 22.
The only other event he is scheduled to participate is the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia, which runs from October 16 to 19.
“It depends on how much desire there is. If you’re just battling your body – you really want to play but it’s not letting you – then I would just give in,” the 18-time major singles champion said.
“He has had an unbelievable career. A much longer career than we all thought he would have because of the physicality of his style.
“That foot has been bothering him for years. And, man, if I lived in Mallorca and had his lifestyle, his boat, I think I would hang it up.”
Speaking on the Spanish television show El Hormiguero, Nadal acknowledged his understanding for the repeated questions about his future, but reiterated that he needed more time to make a decision.
“I understand the questions about retirement, because it’s been a long time and because I’ve had a lot of physical problems, especially in the last two years,” said the Mallorcan resident.
“It is a natural question. But, at the end of the day, there comes a point when I can’t spend every day worrying about retirement.
“Give me time. I’ll make my selection after I have a clear mind. The goals I set for 2024 have passed, and I’m taking my time. I train every day and enjoy other aspects of life.