Rafael Nadal picked up a tennis racquet at a young age. What started as a hobby with his uncle Tony developed into one of the most influential tennis stories ever created! Now retired, Nadal cherishes every moment of his incredible tennis journey, the one that gave him so much.
In his recent interview, Rafa expressed his gratitude toward the sport and all the people who helped him fulfill his dreams. The Spaniard picked tennis over football, and it’s safe to say he made the right call after conquering 22 Major titles and 36 Masters 1000 shields!
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Nadal did not fancy junior tournaments. He represented his country in various age categories but skipped the junior Major events. The young gun made his professional debut in 2001 and gathered experience. The Mallorcan notched his first ATP win in April 2002, still at 15.
A year later, he toppled a top-10 rival and claimed his first ATP title in Sopot in August 2004 at 18. Rafa made a name for himself in 2005, becoming Roger Federer’s closest rival and celebrating his first Major title at Roland Garros a couple of days after turning 19.
Rafael Nadal© Stream screenshot
The Spaniard conquered the ATP throne in August 2008 and accomplished a Career Grand Slam at the 2010 US Open. Thus, at 24, Nadal wrote history books and gathered millions of fans worldwide thanks to his unprecedented fighting spirit and determination.
Always giving everything on the court, Rafa maintained his passion for tennis well after winning almost every notable trophy. The legend claimed his last two Major crowns in the first half of 2022, becoming a proud owner of 22 Major trophies!
Rafael Nadal, Indian Wells© Stream screenshot
However, he could not maintain that form and become world no. 1 again at 36. Nadal gave everything to overcome various injuries and setbacks that bothered him throughout his career. Still, that became much harder with years, and the legend had to end his career last season.
Rafa struggled in the second part of 2022 due to an abdominal injury, losing form and confidence. To make things even worse, he experienced a severe left hip injury at the 2023 Australian Open, embracing the most extended break of his career.
Rafael Nadal© Stream screenshot
The veteran wanted to end his career on his terms. He worked hard in the second part of the year and returned to action in Brisbane last year. Nadal scored 12 victories in 2024 and reached one ATP final. However, he could not challenge the rivals from the top and decided to quit.
His last match came at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals in Malaga. Rafa fell to Botic van de Zandschulp and stepped down from the tennis scene, closing an incredible chapter of tennis history and earning a well-deserved retirement.
Rafael Nadal, Davis Cup Finals 2024© Stream screenshot
“The most important thing is that I have been lucky enough to do what I was passionate about from a young age. It started as a hobby and developed into an essential part of my life, which is my most important thing.
Thanks to tennis, I have had experiences I will cherish for the rest of my life. So all I can do is be grateful to my sport, life and all the people who have helped me or stepped into my life at some point,” Rafael Nadal said.
Tennis World USA