The 22-time major championship holder said in a video clip he posted today, Thursday, on his social media accounts: “I am here to tell you that I have decided to retire from tennis. The truth is that I have gone through some difficult years, especially the last two years, and I do not believe that I am able to play without restrictions.”
He continued: “This is of course a difficult decision, and I needed some time to make it, but in this life everything has a beginning and an end, and I believe that this is the appropriate time to put an end to my career.”
He continued: “I feel excited that my last tournament will be the Davis Cup Finals and to represent my country. One of the happiest moments in my career was the Davis Cup Final in Seville in 2004.”
He pointed out: “I feel very lucky for everything I have been through. I want to thank the entire tennis industry and everyone related to the sport, including my colleagues, especially my great competitors. I spent many hours with them and lived moments with them that I will remember throughout my life.”
He continued: “For my team, it will be more difficult. They represented a very important part of my life and are like my friends. They were by my side all the times I needed them, whether good or bad. We lived a lot together.”
He added: “The family represents everything to me. My mother made all the sacrifices possible so that we could have everything. My wife has been with me for 19 years. Thank you for everything she has given me, as she has been my best friend on the journey throughout the past years.”
He added: “Coming home and watching my son grow up every day was the strength that kept me alive. I also have a strong relationship with my sister, and my uncle was the reason behind me playing tennis. Thanks to him, I succeeded in overcoming many difficult moments in my career, and my father was a source of An inspiration for me, I thank him very much.”
He concluded: “In the end, the fans, I cannot thank you enough. They gave me the energy I needed at every moment. Everything I went through was like a dream come true. I leave now with complete peace of mind that I gave my best. Thank you all.”
Nadal won 22 Grand Slam singles titles, including 14 French Open titles (Roland Garros).
Spain will play in the Davis Cup quarter-finals with the Netherlands on November 19, and if it wins, it will face the qualifier between Germany and Canada, while the final will be held on the 24th.
Source: RT
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