Rafael Nadal fans are finding it hard to hold their excitement to see their favorite player back on the court. The Spaniard, even after going through several challenges, paved his way back to the courts and will be seen back in action at the Australian Open.
While the fans are cheering up Rafa for his comeback, they also hide a concern behind them. Will this be the last year for the King of Clay? As the world found itself in doubt, Rafael Nadal recently showed up to share his thoughts on whether this year will be his last or not.
Rafael Nadal talks about his retirement plans
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As the time of his comeback approaches, Rafael Nadal recently came forward to give answers to the long-held questions of the fans. In a recent press conference, the Spaniard hinted that this might be his last season on the tour, especially in Australia. However, not marking an end to the hopes of the fans, he did not confirm his thoughts, leaving fans in suspense.
Will this be Rafael Nadal’s last summer playing in Australia?
He opens up ahead of taking the court at the Brisbane International.
STORY: https://t.co/MJUw8Nnag2@CallumjDick pic.twitter.com/an8llvWXEI
— Courier Mail Sport (@cmail_sport) December 31, 2023
When asked about the possibility of this being his final professional year, Nadal said, “The problem about saying that’s going to be my last season is I can’t predict what’s going on 100% in the future. That’s why I say ‘probably’. It’s not an easy decision, but I know inside myself that there is a high percentage it’s going to be my last one.”
However, along with giving a strong hint of his exit this season, he also added a point of uncertainty, saying, “If I am here next year, don’t tell me, ‘You said it’s going to be your last season,’ because I didn’t say it (smiling). I just say it’s been an important percentage.” As fans wait to hear his decision, Rafa’s words bring suspense to the scenario.
Djokovic’s confident plans to stay
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As there is not a lot left out of the Big Three rivalry that the world once enjoyed, fans still count on the two that remain. Days before Rafael Nadal opened up about his exit, Novak Djokovic also welcomed questions about his retirement, but in a very different manner.
🎙️ @DjokerNole 🇷🇸🐺
In Saudi Arabia earlier today, ahead of the exhibition match against Spain’s @carlosalcaraz , the 36-year-old Serbian said he had NO plans to retire, hoping to continue playing beyond 40, referring to the career of buddy QB Tom Brady 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/syCZUlU3Jf
— TRAVEL&Sp🎾rts (@travel__Sports) December 26, 2023
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“I feel great in my own body right now and been playing some really high-quality tennis. 2023 was one of the best seasons I have had in my life, and why stop while you’re still playing great? So keep going and take one year by one while you go.” Nole said. As the tennis world is assured of Djokovic’s persistence, it still remains to be seen how long Rafa stays to keep challenging him.
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