Rafael Nadal could be back in action by the end of the year.
Rafael Nadal could make an unexpected comeback, according to Spain’s Davis Cup captain.
David Ferrer said that he has contacted with the 22-time Grand Slam champion about joining the team for Finals Week in Malaga.
If Nadal is able to resurrect his Davis Cup career, he may team up with Carlos Alcaraz in the doubles following their recent Olympic success.
The 38-year-old has not played since he and Alcaraz were eliminated in the quarterfinals of the men’s doubles event at the Paris 2024 Games. Nadal withdrew from the US Open, but has consistently expressed his commitment to the upcoming Laver Cup, a team tournament organized by Roger Federer.
However, Nadal announced his resignation from the Laver Cup last week, stating that another player would be better suited to help Team Europe win, and maintaining that he had “zero” physical difficulties. The former world number one has yet to decide if he would retire, but his future remains uncertain.
He could return to action at the end of the year, though, as Spain qualified for the Davis Cup Finals, which will be held from November 19 to 24. According to team leader Ferrer, Nadal may join the team for the men’s tennis World Cup.
“Yes, I’ve spoken with him. I’m not sure yet [whether he will be in Malaga], but why not?” The former tennis player said following Spain’s impressive group stage performance in Valencia.
“It is possible that he will be with us in Malaga. Regarding his refusal to attend the Games in Valencia, I was aware that he had holidays before making a decision. “He was on tour, competing and playing.”
Former world No. 3 Ferrer agreed with Nadal’s choice not to join the squad for the group stage matches, but he is optimistic about the Finals in Malaga. He went on: “As a friend, not a captain, I thought it was a good idea that he didn’t come to Valencia.
“I believe it was inappropriate, as he needed those days of recuperation and to be with his family. He has replenished his batteries, and whether he chooses to stay in Malaga or not is something I will discuss with him. We shall decide what to do with him.
“The most important thing is that Rafa is well; I am confident that if he is healthy and eager, he will arrive in Malaga in excellent form. From there, I’m not sure; I wouldn’t tell you either.”
Nadal is a Davis Cup veteran. The 38-year-old has been a member of the winning Spanish squad four times, most recently in 2019. He boasts an astounding 29-1 win-loss record in singles matches at the team tournament and has also played in a few doubles rubbers.
If Nadal does return to the squad in November, doubles could be a nice place to start given his recent lack of match action. Nadal and Alcaraz have already proven to be a powerful team at the Olympics and might be deployed in the Davis Cup.