Rafael Nadal announces retirement from tennis following injury struggles

Rafael Nadal, at 38, announced his upcoming retirement from tennis on Thursday, marking the end of a legendary career that saw him claim 22 Grand Slam singles titles during an era shared with fellow Big Three icons, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

Nadal revealed his plan to retire following the Davis Cup finals next month.

“Everything I’ve experienced has truly been a dream come true,” Nadal expressed via social media. “I step away with complete peace, knowing I’ve given everything and made every effort.”

The Spaniard’s decision was prompted by persistent injuries.

“It’s been a tough few years, particularly the last two,” he explained. “I don’t think I’ve been able to play without physical restrictions. It’s a difficult decision, one I’ve taken time to make, but everything in life has a beginning and an end.”

Nadal’s relentless, powerful style—chasing every ball, sliding into position for his iconic lefty forehand—secured his place among tennis’s greatest. He is widely regarded as the King of Clay, having won a record-breaking 14 French Open titles, a feat celebrated by his statue at Roland Garros, standing proudly by Court Philippe Chatrier.

Nadal’s dominance extended beyond Paris. He secured four titles at the U.S. Open and two each at Wimbledon and the Australian Open, completing a career Grand Slam. His final two major victories came in 2022—first in Melbourne and then in Paris—surpassing Federer’s 20 Grand Slam titles. Federer, who retired at 41 in 2022, joined Nadal for an emotional doubles farewell at the Laver Cup.

However, both players were overtaken by Djokovic, who has since amassed 24 Grand Slam titles.

“I want to thank everyone in the tennis world, my colleagues, and particularly my greatest rivals,” Nadal said, accompanied by clips of his legendary battles with Federer and Djokovic. “I’ve shared so many unforgettable moments with them that I’ll cherish for life.”

Nadal’s career was often measured against his matches with Federer and Djokovic, with many captivated by the “Greatest of All Time” debate.

Who could forget Nadal and Federer’s 2008 Wimbledon final? Nadal’s clash with Djokovic at the 2022 French Open quarterfinals? Or the epic Australian Open final in 2012? These rivalries shaped tennis history and will forever be a part of Nadal’s remarkable legacy.