Rafael Nadal in tears admitting 'truth' behind being forced to retire from tennis

Rafael Nadal couldn’t hold back his tears as he revealed the “truth” behind having to retire.

legend played what looks to be his last ever match at the in Malaga on Tuesday. The Spaniard, 38, had announced last month after the tournament, by Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp in the opening singles – only his second singles defeat in Davis Cup history.

Spain’s loss to the Netherlands brought an end to Nadal’s glittering career, which includes 22 Grand Slams, as the Majorcan returned to the court at Palacio de Deportes to address the crowd. With his wife Maria Francisca, coach Carlos Moya and his son Rafa Jr in attendance, emotions were high as the likes of Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic appeared in a video tribute.

Addressing his loyal fans, a tearful Nadal said he still has the drive to play tennis despite turning pro back in 2001. But he admitted his body simply “doesn’t want to play anymore”.

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The 14-time French Open winner said: “The truth is that you never want to get to this point. I'm not tired of playing tennis, but my body doesn't want to play anymore and you have to accept that. I feel super privileged, I've been able to make my hobby my profession for a long time.

“I also remember my family, my team, you have been an unforgettable part of my life for all these years. I am a person who believes in continuity and staying close to the people who have made my life better and that has given me a personal relationship that goes far beyond the professional. Thank you so much because without you this would not have been possible and I say this from the heart.”

Nadal’s storied career has seen him battle with a long list of injuries, including problems with his elbow, ankle, forearm, knee, wrist, back, abdomen and foot. He missed the majority of 2023 and some of 2024 with a hip problem, meaning the only Grand Slam appearance he made this year was at his beloved Roland-Garros.

Nadal’s team-mate Carlos Alcaraz paid tribute to his idol ahead of the event, stating than the tournament itself. He said: "Rafa's farewell is more important than the Davis Cup.

"There are Davis Cups every year, but there is only one 'farewell' to a tennis legend. Doing it in a tournament so special for him, which has meant so much to him since that victory in 2004 against Andy Roddick. It will be very special and I hope he can retire with the title."

Spain were not able to recover from losing the first match. Alcaraz defeated Dutch No. 1 Tallon Griekspoor, but he and Marcel Granollers lost the deciding doubles clash to Van de Zandschulp and Wesley Koolhof.

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