Rafael Nadal, the king of clay, has been missing in action since his injury at the Australian Open this season. There has been a slew of injuries in recent years, which finally culminated in this hip injury. He had the left hip surgically renovated and we pray for him to have a speedy and full recovery. At thirty-seven years old we know how difficult it is for the body to recover. In Nadal’s case, he must be extra careful because his style of play is extremely damaging to his body. It is a testament to his will and love of tennis that he has managed to accomplish all that he has. Furthermore, on the most physically taxing surface, Nadal has reigned supreme.
Embed from Getty ImagesRafael Nadal To Retire In 2024
I was sad to hear this, but I also knew it is inevitable for every athlete. Sport demands a lot of the body and as fit as these players are, that cannot escape Mother time. The mental, emotional, and physical toll eventually drains them. I believe it is best to walk away when you are at the top like Pete Sampras and Steffi Graff did; however, each person must walk their truth. I know that whatever Nadal decides to do following tennis, he will be successful. I thank him for the decades of brilliant and passionate tennis. There will never be another Rafael Nadal.
Nadal’s Legacy At Roland Garros
What Nadal has accomplished at Roland Garros is simply mind blowing. What he has accomplished in his career despite all the naysayers is amazing. Sure, he never won the Paris or Miami Masters, and he never won an ATP Final. However, we know that Roger Federer never won Olympic gold. We know that no one in the history of the sport has ever won fourteen Roland Garros titles. Frankly, I do not think anyone else will ever accomplish that feat.
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