Rafael Nadal, a 22-time major winner, has played just 13 games since last August. The Spaniard has struggled with some injuries, lost ground after Roland Garros last year and dropped out of the top 10 after nearly 18 years.
Despite this, Rafa can’t wait to get back in action and give himself a few more years on Tour! His uncle and former coach Tony dismissed calls for retirement, saying that Rafa still had a passion for the game and wanted to extend his career.
Nadal is expected to return to action in the coming weeks after being absent from the field since January as he looks to chase his 15th Roland Garros title in June.
Rafa made his debut in Paris in 2005 and reached a major league title by the age of 19. The Spaniard began his incredible journey to become the most dominant singles major player in history, losing just three matches in Paris and winning 14 trophies in as many finals!
Rafa arrived in Paris 12 months ago with a dark cloud over his head, having suffered early defeats to Madrid and Roma and battling a foot injury.
However, he overcame all odds and defeated Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev and Casper Ruud en route to his 14th Parisien trophy. It is the last ATP title for Nadal, who has played in just 13 matches since August last year and won five.
Rafael Nadal doesn’t think about ending his career.
Rafa was not at his best in the final stages last year and the beginning of 2023 has not brought anything good for him.
The Spaniard suffered a huge setback at the Australian Open, failing to continue his title defense and losing nearly 2000 ATP points. Rafa suffered a left hip injury and missed seven tournaments, including three on his beloved soil.
The Spaniard left the Top 10 in March after almost 18, and we have yet to see his return. Nadal will be in no hurry to do anything after such a long break, but his fans expect to see him in Rome and Paris.
“Rafa would like to compete now, but it will be soon. He will play at Roland Garros, and we will base his chances on the coming weeks and the Rome Masters. Rafa is not thinking about retirement.
He is still passionate about tennis and wants to make a full recovery and compete again,” said Toni Nadal.
