Rafael Nadal, the legendary Spanish tennis star, is preparing for an emotional farewell from the sport at the Davis Cup in Malaga next week. The 38-year-old has battled injuries in recent years, but his presence on the court will be a major attraction for fans.
Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam winner, led Spain to victory in the Davis Cup in Madrid five years ago. However, he has admitted that his role in Malaga may be limited to doubles rather than singles.
“First off, we’ll have to see how I feel in training and, if I really don’t feel I have a chance to win the singles, I’ll be the first to not want to play,” Nadal said.
French Open and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz will be Spain’s leading player, and his presence gives Nadal a real chance of retiring on a high note.
“Probably one of the most special tournaments that I’m going to play. Last tournament of Rafa, I’ll be able to be next to him in the last moments on a tennis court for him,” said Alcaraz.
Nadal has won singles gold at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and triumphed in the doubles at Rio 2016 alongside Marc Lopez. However, injuries have seen his ranking slump to 155.
The last of his 92 career titles came with his 14th French Open and 22nd major at Roland Garros in 2022. He hasn’t played a competitive singles match since losing to Novak Djokovic at the Olympics in July.
Many are hoping for Spain and Alcaraz to meet world number one Jannik Sinner’s Italy, the defending champions, in the final.
Record 32-time champions the United States have selected a strong team spearheaded by US Open finalist Taylor Fritz.
Nadal clashed with Alcaraz in Saudi Arabia at the “Six Kings Slam” exhibition in October, losing in straight sets, but they will be fighting for the same goal in Andalucia.
Tennis greats and stars from other sports are among those clamoring to watch Nadal’s farewell, with career rivals Djokovic and Roger Federer among those expected to attend.
Spain face the Netherlands on Tuesday in the last eight, with the winner taking on Germany or Canada in the semi-finals.
