Google News A Farewell in Paris? Boris Becker Contemplates Rafael Nadal's Retirement Plans
by JOVICA ILIC | VIEW 1501
Roland Garros starts on Sunday, and a 14-time champion Rafael Nadal is not in the draw for the first time since 2004! The 36-year-old skipped his beloved tournament due to an ongoing hip injury, failing to recover despite his best efforts and planning his retirement in 2024.
A six-time Major winner Boris Becker wishes Rafa all the best, saying he deserves to finish his incredible court on a tennis court. It could happen next summer during the 2024 Paris Olympics at Nadal's familiar Roland Garros.
Nadal held a press conference to announce his plans, hoping to embrace a farewell tour in 2024 and play the important tournament he loves if his body allows that. The Spaniard would love to compete at the Olympic Games again, although everything depends on his body and the course of his recovery.
Rafa has played only 13 matches since the last August, winning five and staying in the top-15 thanks to his 2000 ATP points from the previous Roland Garros. Nadal had a terrible period in the second part of 2022, and his luck did not change at the start of the current season.
Rafa experienced two losses at the United Cup, playing without form but still giving his best at the Australian Open.
Boris Becker spoke about Rafael Nadal's possible last tournament.
The defending champion injured his left hip in the second round against Mackenzie McDonald, experiencing a massive setback that will end his career.
Nadal gave his best to recover for the clay swing or Roland Garros alone. However, his progress is too slow to even think about competing. The veteran will spend the next few months with his family, doing things he has been missing for years.
We should see him on the court in 2024 if he recovers, deserving to end his career on his terms after giving so much to our sport in the previous two decades. "All the athletes have overused their bodies. I had surgeries and do not want that to happen to Rafa or anyone.
Rafa is out of Roland Garros and marks the end of an era. What surprises me is that he never lost a final here, winning all 14. Rafa could end his career at the Paris Olympics next year. It's his favorite tournament and court; he could play his last match on Court Philippe-Chatrier, but it depends on how things develop.
I wish him an excellent finish on a tennis court, even though it will take a lot of effort," Boris Becker said.
