Rafael Nadal has provided a long-awaited update on his tennis future by announcing that he will retire at the end of the season.
Nadal will play at the Davis Cup Finals next month before hanging up his racket, with the competition taking place in Malaga.
Roger Federer has messaged Nadal following his retirement, with the Swiss star having made the same decision in September 2022.
He also decided to end his tennis career at a team event, with Federer saying farewell to tennis after the Laver Cup.
Nadal’s season has once again been disrupted by injury, but he has still managed to post a 12-7 record so far.
Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after Rafael Nadal announces retirement
Countless messages of congratulations have been coming in for the Spanish star, which is unsurprising given his stunning career on the court.
And among those messaging Nadal was football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who commented on the Spaniard’s Instagram video announcing his decision.
Translated from Spanish, Ronaldo wrote: “Rafa, what an incredible race you’ve had! Your dedication, passion and incredible talent have inspired millions around the world.
“It has been an honour to witness your journey and to be able to call you a friend. Congrats on an amazing career! Enjoy your retirement!”
Can Rafael Nadal go out on a high at the Davis Cup Finals?
Nadal will be keen to clinch succes at his final tournament, something which Federer couldn’t manage as Team Europe lost the 2022 Laver Cup.
Federer played alongside Nadal in his final ever match, with the duo losing out to Team World pair Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe in London.
Host nation Spain meet the Netherlands in the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup Finals next month, where Nadal will be joined by current star Carlos Alcaraz.
READ MORE: What Rafael Nadal told Spain captain David Ferrer about playing at the Davis Cup
Given his injury issues of late, perhaps just making it onto the court will be Nadal’s main aim, but the former one will undoubtedly have something up his sleeve.
He will hang up his racket with 92 tour-level titles, including a record 14 French Open titles from his 22 Grand Slam successes.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
