"I have never said my career would end in Paris": No French Open retirement for Rafael Nadal with Olympic Games in sight

Rafael Nadal has said that he will not end his career at the French Open, well in particular Paris in a bit of a double hint about his future which could see him retire potentially at the end of 2024 at the Davis Cup instead.

Speaking to Movistar after his defeat to Jiri Lehecka which brought an end to his Madrid Open journey, Nadal said that he never claimed that he would end his career in Paris while also setting his sight on the Olympic Games. But this is a double edged sword with both the French Open and Olympic Games taking place in Paris this season.

"My dream would be to play in the Olympics once again. I have never said that my career would end in Paris," stated the all conquering King of Clay to Movistar.

But this would only point to a few possibilities. He will retire at the Olympic Games and meant Paris as in the French Open, the US Open which he has snubbed in recent years so is less likely, the Saudi Slam exhibition or Laver Cup. Or in fact it could be the Davis Cup Finals with Spain having a wildcard as hosts and would likely see him play his final match in front of his home fans.

Nadal clamoured last year to even return early to play Davis Cup and amid conjecture about his farewell being against Jiri Lehecka, he may instead see his final match in Spain take place during the latest edition in November. This would give him scope for a big farewell and potentially facing Djokovic, Sinner etc for one final time as well as teaming with Carlos Alcaraz. But Nadal has always also stated that he would let fans know ahead of time when he will leave the sport. So truthfully it will be known soon enough whether at the French Open, Olympic Games or further down the line.