Former World No.1 Rafale Nadal has all but confirmed that the 2024 ATP season will be his last year on tour as a professional tennis player.
The Spaniard missed the bulk of the 2023 season due to an injury suffered at last year's Australian Open. Following almost a year of rehabilitation and recovery after a surgery, Nadal made his much-anticipated return this January in Brisbane. Although he won his first two matches at the event, he sustained an injury in his semifinal match, which led to with withdrawing from the 2024 Australian Open.
In an interview with Spanish radio station Cadena COPE, the 37-year old hinted that this might be his last year on tour. The 14-time French Open champion stated he was yet to make a final decision, but would make an official announcement when Roland Garros comes around.
"This is going to be my last year but I don't confirm it 100%. I will go day by day. I'll say it before Roland Garros," said Nadal. "I give myself a few months of caution. You know that things can happen, so I can't define things months in advance after a year without competing."
Nadal recently announced his withdrawal from the 2024 Qatar Open next week, stating he had not fully recovered from the muscle tear in his hip. However, he is still scheduled to play against compatriot Carlos Alcaraz at an exhibition event in Las Vegas, and has his sights set on competing at Indian Wells later in March.
I would have loved to play in Doha, where the tournament team, as well as the amazing Qatar fans have always supported me greatly. Unfortunately I am not ready to compete and I won’t be able to come to Doha where I really wanted to be and play again after that unforgettable win…
