Former world No. 1 and 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal confirmed earlier today via a video message that he would retire after competing in Malaga this November. Nadal had already been chosen for Spain’s Davis Cup squad by captain David Ferrer, alongside world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz, who is also set to compete.Breaking News: Carlos Alcaraz responds to Rafael Nadal’s retirement, saying, “It’s even harder for me.”Breaking News: Carlos Alcaraz responds to Rafael Nadal’s retirement, saying, “It’s even harder for me.”
The retirement announcement came just before Alcaraz’s Shanghai Masters quarterfinal match against Tomas Machac, which he lost 7-6(5), 7-5. When asked if the news affected his performance, the 21-year-old emphasized that it didn’t impact his play, though he admitted the news was “even tougher” for him.
Alcaraz said, “Honestly, I couldn’t believe it when I saw it. It didn’t distract me before the match; I stayed focused. But when I watched it, it was hard to accept. I was a bit shocked. Luckily, I saw it an hour before the match, so I had time to process and move on.”
Reflecting on Nadal’s retirement, Alcaraz added, “It’s very tough news, especially for me. He’s been my idol since I started playing tennis. Thanks to him, I was inspired to become a professional player. Losing him in the sport is going to be difficult, so I’ll try to savor the time we have left with him.”
Alcaraz also mentioned that they will both compete in Saudi Arabia and then in the Davis Cup Finals, saying he intends to make the most of these opportunities. He expressed disappointment for the sport and himself, noting Nadal’s profound influence on his career.
Nadal’s upcoming appearances include the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia, where he will join Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic before the Davis Cup in November. The two previously teamed up in doubles at the Olympic Games, and many are eager to see if they will reunite on court in Malaga.
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