Rafael Nadal's career ended a couple of months ago, after the Spanish legend played his last match at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga. The last dance of the 22-time Grand Slam champion disappointed the expectations of fans and insiders, not only because Spain was prematurely eliminated against the Netherlands.
The organizers of the event did not expect the local idols to be eliminated as early as Day 1 and were not ready for Rafa's farewell ceremony, which is why so many VIPs were absent (including Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray and Pau Gasol) and the event was not as memorable as one of the best athletes ever deserved.
The former world number 1 made history in the sport and the decision to retire was very painful, although it was inevitable due to the signals that his body had sent him over the last two years. The 14-time French Open champion has worked hard to be competitive in 2024, but the results have not been satisfactory and new injuries have prevented him from playing some of his favorite tournaments.
Nadal hasn't decided his future yet
Nadal is enjoying a well-deserved rest with his family and it is unclear what he will do in the future. Excluding a coaching career, former world No.1 Mats Wilander suggested that Rafa become a commentator.
"Nadal would be an incredible commentator, I have no doubt about it," Mats said. "He would describe what happens on the pitch much better than anyone else. When I started doing this job and watching the matches, I thought every single point was equally important. Today I realize that most people who watch a tennis match when the score is 1-1 15-15 think it's not an important point and get distracted" added the former Swedish champion.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion was in Jeddah late last year to promote the Next Gen ATP Finals.
The Spanish legend has promised that he will remain in contact with tennis, waiting to find out in what role.
