From potential World No.1 to retirement looming: How it all changed for Nadal in one year
ATPWednesday, 16 August 2023 at 19:30
Rafael
Nadal had a career comeback in 2022, but a year later, he is on the brink of
retirement.
The 22-time
Grand Slam champion has always dealt with injuries throughout his career, often
forcing him to withdraw from tournaments and endure extended periods of
recovery.
In 2021,
after the French Open, Nadal played only two matches in the DC Open before
ending his season abruptly. Retirement rumors were circulating, but the
following year, the Spanish player made a triumphant return with a streak of 21
consecutive wins.
He secured
four titles in the Melbourne Summer Set, Australian Open, Mexican Open, and
French Open. Additionally, his appearance in the Indian Wells final gave him a
shot at the top spot in the rankings, with the opportunity to dethrone Daniil
Medvedev from world No. 1.
Although
Nadal participated in Wimbledon, he withdrew before the semifinals against Nick
Kyrgios, arriving at Cincinnati with limited match practice. Unfortunately, he
suffered a first-round defeat to Borna Coric, ending 7-6, 4-6, 6-3.
This
outcome dashed his hopes of regaining the world No. 1 ranking, a position he
first claimed in 2008 at the age of 22, following a spectacular season
featuring seven titles, including the French Open, Wimbledon, and an Olympic
gold medal.
His most
recent reign as world No. 1 lasted until January 2020, totaling 209 weeks. He
ranks sixth among male players with the most weeks at the top, following Novak
Djokovic, Roger Federer, Pete Sampras, Ivan Lendl, and Jimmy Connors.
After
Cincinnati, Nadal headed to the US Open, still hopeful that a victory might
propel him back to world No. 1. However, he only reached the round of 16 and
was defeated by Frances Tiafoe with a score of 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.
Struggling
with less-than-optimal physical condition after the US Open, Nadal suffered
four consecutive losses, ending the season as world No. 2 behind Carlos
Alcaraz.
In early
2023, the 14-time Roland Garros champion entered the Australian Open directly.
Despite a first-round victory against Jack Draper, he swiftly exited in the
second round against Mackenzie McDonald, marking his most recent match on the
ATP tour.
Nadal has
revealed his plan to return in 2024, aiming to participate in his favorite
tournaments in good physical shape before retiring at the end of that year.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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