Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal has revealed that he is unlikely to play at the US Open and hinted that his career could very soon to end, reported sportal.bg.
Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz's fine performance in men's doubles at the Olympics ended with a 2-6, 4-6 loss to American fourth-seeded Austin Krajicek and Rajiv Ram.
The 14-time French Open champion made a lasting splash with his performance on Philippe Chatrier, but it seems very likely that Nadal will not be on Roland Garros again.
Asked if he will head to the US, where events for New York are already underway, the 38-year-old said: “It looks like not, but I will let you know soon. For me now, I can't give you a clear answer, I need some time, but it seems difficult for me“.
Meanwhile, when asked about his on-court partnership with Alcaraz, Nadal cast even more doubt over his future.
„If I was 10 years younger, we would have created a beautiful relationship on the court and we would have shared many beautiful moments together,” he said.
„But that won't happen. We'll see if I can continue to play the normal tour. But of course I'll be rooting for him from home and wish him the best every time. Even if I continue to play or not, I love tennis”, Nadal also said.
The Spaniard confirmed his participation in the “Laver Cup” in Berlin in September and two years after Roger Federer bid farewell to the Ryder Cup-style tournament, there is an opportunity for his great rival to follow suit.
Nadal was hoping to add to his Olympic career with a third medal after previously winning gold in singles and doubles, but the passionate crowd failed to help him and Alcaraz against a quality doubles team.
„It was disappointing not to win a medal for Spain, but that's it. I gave my best every minute I was on the court, but it wasn't enough to achieve our goals.
If this is the last time, it is an unforgettable feeling and emotion. People give me love and support every single second I'm on the court. Super, super special to feel this especially in this place. At this stage of my career I play for feelings, I play more for emotions than results.
I have earned enough in my career, far more than I ever dreamed of. For me it's about enjoying different experiences and it's another experience in life to share with Carlos, an incredible player who I think will of course be one of the best in the history of this sport,' Nadal concluded.