Former Spanish No.1 believes Rafael Nadal should start living his life away from tennis

Rafael Nadal has not played since the Paris Olympics, and has now recently withdrawn from the Laver Cup in Berlin.

Former Spanish No.1 believes Rafael Nadal should start living his life away from tennis

Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

Former World No. 1 Garbine Muguruza has suggested that Rafael Nadal should consider retirement due to his recurring injury issues. Although Nadal has claimed to be free of injuries recently, he has withdrawn from the upcoming Laver Cup.

This is disappointing news for the tennis world, as many were anticipating a potential retirement announcement from Nadal at the team event. The 22-time Grand Slam champion last competed at the Paris Olympics in singles and doubles, representing Spain in his fourth Olympic Games.

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He’s so ready. His body, his mind, just everything. It’s time to also enjoy his kid! I see him smiling all the time with his baby. I’m like, ‘Why are you on the court still? Go home, take the boat, go in Mallorca.’ I think he gave everything he had.
Garbine Muguruza said in an interview with tennis.com

Muguruza, who retired from the sport earlier this year, holds a significant place in Spanish tennis history. Notably, in September 2017, Spain made history with both the male (Nadal) and female (Muguruza) as the top-ranked players in the world.

It’s hard to know him. He's very shy. We talked a little bit at the Laureus Awards in Madrid earlier this year. (Muguruza is a Laureus Ambassador.) He said, ‘This is my last year,’ but he didn’t share anything else. I don’t want to ask him personal questions.
Garbine Muguruza added

However, Nadal has struggled since returning to the tour in 2024. He has a disappointing 12-7 win-loss record this season, with only one ATP final appearance at the Bastad Open.

Grigor Dimitrov announced as the replacement for Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup

In a surprising development, Grigor Dimitrov will replace Rafael Nadal for Team Europe at the upcoming Laver Cup. Nadal, a key player in previous editions, has withdrawn due to ongoing physical issues. While this news has disappointed fans and teammates, it gives Dimitrov a chance to shine on this big stage.

Rafael Nadal, Grigor Dimitrov
Rafael Nadal, Grigor Dimitrov (Image via Imago) 
It’s an honor to be part of such a prestigious event and to represent Team Europe. I look forward to competing alongside some of the best players in the world and contributing to our success.
Grigor Dimitrov issued a statement upon his confirmation at the Laver Cup

Dimitrov, often compared to Roger Federer for his similar playing style, brings both skill and experience to the team. His one-handed backhand and versatile game have made him a consistent player on the ATP Tour. Joining stars like Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, and Casper Ruud, Dimitrov adds depth to Team Europe.

The Laver Cup, scheduled for September 20-22 in Berlin, is a popular team event that pits Europe against the rest of the world. Fans love its unique format, and with Bjorn Borg captaining Team Europe for the last time, Dimitrov’s inclusion is expected to strengthen the team’s chances of keeping the title.

Currently ranked No. 10, Dimitrov recently retired from his match against Frances Tiafoe in the quarterfinals, with the score at 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-3, 4-1. This year, the 2017 ATP World Tour Finals champion has a solid 37-14 match record, winning a title in Brisbane and reaching the finals in Marseille and Miami.