“I didn’t finish my trip with a racket,” Rafael Nadal reveals his future plans after Madrid Open loss, hints on nearing retirement

The 37-year-old wants to make the most of the energy left in him.

“I didn’t finish my trip with a racket,” Rafael Nadal reveals his future plans after Madrid Open loss, hints on nearing retirement

Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal is in the last stage of his career. The 37-year-old played his last match in Madrid on Tuesday as Nadal lost to Jiri Lehecka in the fourth round of the ATP 1000 tournament. It was an emotional moment for the player as well as his fans. Nadal got a memorable farewell with everyone rising to their feet to celebrate his achievements.

He also gave an emotional speech where he talked about the love he has received from the fans in Madrid. Nadal was honored by the tournament director as well. While all of this was happening, Nadal was thinking about what lies ahead for him.

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He has confirmed that he won’t play in Madrid anymore. However, that does not mean that fans will not get to see him in action on the tour. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has announced that he will continue to compete till he can. He emphasized that he had only finished in Madrid but not on the entire tour.

I was very moved. I held back, I didn't want to burst into tears, even though I didn't come far from doing so. Because I'm not finished. I finished in Madrid, but I didn't finish my trip with racket in hand.
Rafael Nadal said following his Madrid Open exit.

Rafael Nadal looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead

Rafael Nadal said that it was emotional for him to play his last match at a tournament he has loved to compete in throughout his career. However, he acknowledged the need to let go of the emotions and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.

Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

Nadal said that he is inspired by what he saw in Madrid and the adrenaline rush is right up there. The 37-year-old now looks to make the most of the motivation and energy he is left with. 

It was moving, but maybe now is not the time to let go of what I have inside of me. I still have a long way to go and I don't want to let all this adrenaline go yet. I leave with a lot of energy, I have taken steps forward in all areas. We will have to see if I am able to consolidate this progress.
Rafael Nadal said to L’Euipe.

Notably, while his journey at the Madrid Open is over, Nadal has a lot of tournaments to play in for the last time. Among all, the 2024 French Open is the tournament that everyone including the player himself is looking forward to. Having won as many as 14 titles, Nadal is ready for a last dance at Roland Garros.

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