Rafael Nadal withdraws from Laver Cup, sparking retirement speculation
Xtra Time Web Desk: Rafael Nadal has stirred speculation about his tennis career by withdrawing from the Laver Cup, a prestigious team tournament. On September 12, Nadal announced his decision to miss the event, scheduled for September 20-22, raising questions about his future in the sport. He explained that his withdrawal was made with Team Europe’s interests in mind, indicating he wasn't fully prepared for competition.
"This is a team competition, and to truly support Team Europe, I need to do what's best for them. At this moment, there are other players who can help the team deliver the win," Nadal stated.
At 38, Nadal had previously suggested that the 2024 season might be his final year on the professional tour. After ending his 2023 season early due to hip surgery, Nadal returned to competition in January 2024 but has struggled with form. He participated in only one Grand Slam tournament this year—Roland Garros—where he was eliminated in the first round.
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Since the Paris Olympics, Nadal has not competed, having been knocked out by Novak Djokovic in the second round of the men’s singles. He and Carlos Alcaraz reached the men’s doubles quarter-finals but did not advance further.
Nadal also withdrew from the US Open, citing his inability to give "100 percent" at the season's final Grand Slam. He had initially planned to return for the Laver Cup, the event where Roger Federer retired in 2022.
Despite his withdrawal from the Laver Cup, Nadal assured fans that he is doing well physically and mentally but remains unsure about future plans. "I am not in a position to set any goals right now. I said I would play until the Olympics, and then we'd see. I'm in that period of rest. Mentally, I am fine—no problems," Nadal said.
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Nadal has one unofficial event left this season: the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh from October 16 to 19, where he is expected to participate. He may also join Spain in the Davis Cup Finals knockout stage in November if the team advances.
As he navigates his future, Nadal's fans and the tennis world await his next move, hoping for clarity on whether he will continue for another season or prepare for a potential farewell tour.
