Retired from the tennis courts this Tuesday (19) after dealing with a series of injuries in recent years, Rafael Nadal stated that he still enjoys playing, but that his body can no longer withstand the high physical demands required to remain on the professional circuit. .
“The reality is that you never want to get to this moment, I’m not tired of playing tennis, but the body doesn’t want to play anymore and we have to accept that. I feel super privileged, I’ve been able to make my hobby my profession for a long time time”, said Nadal at the Martin Carpena Arena, in Malaga, after Spain’s defeat to the Netherlands in the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup, which confirmed the Spaniard’s retirement.
“I’m super passionate about tennis and I’m still here, I hope to be a good tennis ambassador. That’s what I’ve been trying every day to achieve goals. I think I’ve tried to do it with respect, with humility, valuing all the good things,” said Nadal , second biggest Grand Slam winner in history, with 22 cups. He is behind only Serbian rival Novak Djokovic, with 24.
“I’m leaving this world of professional tennis having met many good friends along the way,” added the tennis player, who also thanked his family, team and fans.
“Honestly, it was a 20-year professional career in which you carried me through good times and bad times, you encouraged me to continue playing. I feel very grateful to feel the affection of the entire public and especially here in Spain”, said the Spanish, in reference to the public that filled the gym in Malaga to watch their idol farewell.
“I want to say goodbye by saying my last words to my family, who never let me down. They were with me in difficult times, in good times they kept me grounded,” said Nadal, who was coached in the best phase of his career by his uncle , Toni Nadal.
With agencies
