Rafael Nadal is days away from retirement. Though fans have been hushed with unsettling emotions, disappointing updates can’t seem to stop. As per the reports, the Billie Jean King Cup has been postponed after an unexpected weather alert triggered the authorities to push the scheduled dates for the much-awaited thriller in Malaga, Spain. Simply put, Paula Badosa will have to wait for her turn.

Taking to X, the renowned journalist Jose Morgado confirmed the news by showcasing a ‘public statement’, wherein details of the revised dates and reasons for the annual event’s postponement were listed. The notice read – “Due to severe weather alert issued by local and regional authorities, the 2024 BJK Cup first-round tie between Spain and Poland, originally scheduled for today, November 13 at 5 PM, has been postponed. The tie will now take place on Friday, November 15, starting 10 AM.”

It continued stating that “this decision has been made based on guidance from the relevant authorities to ensure the health and safety of all participants and attendees. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and cooperation.”

Two weeks after flash floods wreaked havoc in eastern Spain, several areas in the nation are on high alert. The calamity washed out more than 200 people, generating panic among locals – causing thousands to move to the Costa del Sol region of southern Spain. As per reports, the new weather front is expected to come loaded with torrential rains. For now, host Spain and their team’s leader, Paula Badosa, will take a backseat before taking on Iga Swiatek‘s Poland. It is worth noting that the annual event will house twelve teams, who will assemble in Andalusia to contest for the crown captured by Canada last year.

Seeing as the final days of the BJK Cup would overlap with the men’s Davis Cup Finals in the arena next week when Spaniard Rafa’s farewell takes place, the authorities have come up with a memorable way to commend his illustrious career.

Paula Badosa will likely attend Rafael Nadal’s farewell in Malaga

Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal’s effect on sporting aspirants is well documented, just like his impact on compatriots like Paula Badosa and Carlos Alcaraz needs no reiteration. The 22-time Major winner announced that he will walk away from professional tennis after representing his nation for the last time at the Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga.

To much amazement, his farewell will be witnessed by both the WTA and ATP stars, and, all for a good reason. The BJK Cup and Davis Cup share the same venue. Hoping to honor the Spanish sensation’s commendable run on the tour, the authorities wrapped the outer casing of the stadium with a banner, reading “Gracias Rafa“.

With the dates set for the Davis Cup Final 8, from 19-24 November at the Palacio de Deportes José María Martín Carpena in Malaga, fans and players are going through mixed emotions. While no one wishes for the veteran to retire, it’ll take time for people to accept that his journey would’ve met an inevitable end eventually.