Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal has declared his retirement from professional tennis, bringing an end to a career that saw him clinch 22 Grand Slam titles.
The 38-year-old Spaniard revealed his decision via a video message posted on social media platform X on Thursday.
“Hello everyone. I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis,” Nadal said in the video.
Nadal, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history, cited persistent physical limitations as a key factor in his decision to step away from the sport.
“The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations,” he explained.
The former world number one acknowledged the gravity of his decision, stating: “It is obviously a difficult decision, one that has taken me some time to make.”
Mil gracias a todos
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) October 10, 2024
Many thanks to all
Merci beaucoup à tous
Grazie mille à tutti
谢谢大家
شكرا لكم جميعا
תודה לכולכם
Obrigado a todos
Vielen Dank euch allen
Tack alla
Хвала свима
Gràcies a tots pic.twitter.com/7yPRs7QrOi
Nadal’s retirement marks the end of an era in tennis, following closely on the heels of his long-time rival Roger Federer’s departure from the sport in 2022.
The Spaniard’s career includes a record 14 French Open titles and an Olympic gold medal.
