Rafael Nadal has just played his penultimate professional tennis event, even though it was only an exhibition. The former world number 1 – who did not play at the Paris Olympics this summer – was one of the stars of the ‘Six Kings Slam‘ in Saudi Arabia last week. The Spanish legend – who admitted he had not had high expectations for that event – was defeated in two sets by both Carlos Alcaraz and his great rival Novak Djokovic. Although he appeared to be in good physical condition, Rafa’s level is still not sufficient for him to be fielded by Spain’s captain David Ferrer at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion will try to finish his form in the month before the last tournament of his legendary career, before starting a new chapter of his life. The decision to retire has saddened the entire world of sport, but there is a realization that it is the right choice given the results achieved in recent months.
The 14-time French Open champion is no longer in contention for the most prestigious titles and it would not make sense to settle for a second-tier role at 38. Rafa’s career has been longer than expected and the finale will be worthy of one of the best athletes of the modern era.
Rafa’s reaction
The former world number 1 had a great time in Saudi Arabia last week, having brought his entire team and family with him. Rafa joked with Novak Djokovic, Carlitos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Daniil Medvedev and Holger Rune, who all had beautiful words for him. Many fans and insiders have criticized this event in Saudi Arabia, having given players a truly immoral prize money.