Rafael Nadal explains why he chose Davis Cup as his retirement tournament 🥹

Rafael Nadal played the Davis Cup for the first time in his professional career in 2004, and he will conclude his career in this event.

Rafael Nadal (via X)

22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal has explained why he chose the Davis Cup as the final event of his tennis career. The Spaniard is set to retire next week in Malaga.

In interviews with local media, Nadal shared that his decision was influenced by history and nostalgia. He reflected on playing the Davis Cup for the first time in 2004 and his many successes in the tournament since then.

Speculation about Nadal’s retirement began after his first-round loss at Roland Garros in June. Many believed he would retire at the Paris Olympics, held at Roland Garros, where he has won 14 Grand Slam titles.

I think it’s one of my first great joys. And it’s maybe my first great joy as a professional tennis player. I think it was the Davis Cup in 2004, and that’s how it happened. The opportunity was given to me and, to be honest with David (Ferrer, the captain), he told me he was counting on me. I told him I would prepare as best I could and then we’ll see. No, I think I can more or less prepare well, that’s why I’m here. And then you have to take it day by day. I haven’t played competitively for a long time and the reality is that I’m looking forward to it, in every way possible.

Rafael Nadal said in an interview to RFETenis

Later, others expected him to announce his retirement at the Laver Cup in June, following the example of his rival Roger Federer in 2022. However, Nadal withdrew from the Laver Cup at the last minute before announcing his decision to retire on October 10.

Feliciano Lopez provides positive update on Rafael Nadal for the Davis Cup

Rafael Nadal has arrived in Malaga for what will be the final tournament of his career. Tournament Director Feliciano Lopez mentioned that a decision on his role in the Spain team is yet to be made. Nadal’s first potential matches could take place next Tuesday when Spain faces the Netherlands in the quarter-finals of the event, which follows a knock-out format.

Rafa has been training very hard. He’s been trying to get ready and to be there in the best form. Then it will be up to David Ferrer, who is the captain, if he is going to play singles or doubles. This is going to be decided once everyone is in Malaga. As far as I know, he is doing great. He is really looking forward to this special moment. It is going to be very exciting for everyone and also very emotional as it’s going to be his last professional tournament. You know, everyone is so excited.

Feliciano Lopez said in the Davis Cup Q&A

The 22-time Grand Slam champion has been practising on the courts of a stadium decorated with large banners celebrating his remarkable career. He has had a month to prepare for this tournament after a below-par performance at the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia last month. Lopez hinted that Nadal might participate in singles matches.

Remember that Davis Cup is where everything kind of started for him when he played an amazing match in Seville against Andy Roddick. That was probably one of the turning points in his career and luckily his career is going to come to an end also playing Davis Cup. It’s a very nice thing. So we are very lucky that he is going to be retiring playing Davis Cup in his country, in Spain and in Malaga.

Feliciano Lopez added

There is speculation that Nadal might only compete in doubles, possibly partnering with Carlos Alcaraz. However, Spain’s captain, David Ferrer, could allow the 22-time Grand Slam champion a farewell moment in singles as well. Fans eagerly await to see if Nadal will feature in both formats during his final event.

Nadal has not played a competitive singles match since last summer’s Olympic Games in Paris. While a doubles appearance in the Davis Cup seems more likely, a singles farewell would be a fitting tribute to his illustrious career.