Martina Navratilova shares candid take on Rafael Nadal retirement question
Tennis great Martina Navratilova has given her thoughts on Rafael Nadal’s tennis future and revealed she would “give in” if she were in the Spaniard’s position.
The former world No 1 recognised Nadal’s decision depends on “how much desire there is”, but suggested the 38-year-old’s battle with his body means it may not be worth him continuing.
Nadal last played at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris at the end of July and has not yet set an end date for his remarkable career.
The Spanish legend lost 6-1, 6-4 to his great rival and eventual gold medallist Novak Djokovic in the second round of the Olympics, which was staged at Stade Roland Garros.
In doubles, Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz saw their run end with a 6-2, 6-4 quarter-final defeat to Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram after two victories.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion is next set to compete at the 2024 Laver Cup, which will be held in Berlin from September 20-22.
The only other event he is due to play is the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia, which will run from October 16 to 19.
Rafael Nadal News
John McEnroe predicts Rafael Nadal’s retirement date is imminent
Rafael Nadal addresses Carlos Alcaraz’s ‘mentally not strong’ comments
In a Q&A session for Sky Sports Tennis, Navratilova was asked whether she thinks Nadal should retire or continue playing.
“It depends on how much desire there is. If you’re just battling your body – you really want to play but it’s not letting you – then I would just give in,” the 18-time major singles champion said.
“He has had an unbelievable career. A much longer career than we all thought he would have because of the physicality of his style.
“That foot has been bothering him for years. And, man, if I lived in Mallorca and had his lifestyle, his boat, I think I would hang it up.”
Speaking on the El Hormiguero show on Spanish TV, Nadal expressed his understanding for the frequent questions about his future, but reiterated he needs more time to decide.
“I understand the questions about retirement, because it’s been a long time and because I’ve had a lot of physical problems, especially in the last two years,” said the Mallorcan.
“It’s a normal question. But at the end of the day, there comes a time when I can’t live every day thinking about retirement.
“Give me time. I’ll make my decision when I have a clear head. The goals I set for 2024 are over and I’m taking my time. I train every day and enjoy other things in life.”
READ NEXT: The 7 men with 100+ hard-court Grand Slam wins: ft. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer
