Rafael Nadal's final professional appearance before retiring is next month, and Jimmy Connors thinks the Spaniard's playing style is why he cannot manage physically anymore.
Nadal has dealt with injuries and pain throughout his career. His uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, revealed his nephew started taking painkillers during practice sessions in 2005 when he was 18 or 19 years old.
However, his physical issues became more severe during the last two years. He has made several failed comeback attempts due to injuries, most notably a hip problem sustained at the 2023 Australian Open.
Nadal competed at the Olympics in July. He lost in the quarterfinals of the men's doubles with Carlos Alcaraz and was defeated by his old rival Novak Djokovic 6-1, 6-4 in the second round of the men's singles.
Carlos Moya, a longtime member of Nadal's team, admitted that a comprehensive loss to Djokovic at the Olympics influenced his decision to stop playing since the Spaniard viewed it as his last great chance.
Nadal has also acknowledged that all his physical problems and constant attempts to get himself fit played a role. The 38-year-old is remarkably resilient, but even someone like him eventually needs to accept retirement is necessary.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion is known worldwide for his playing style. He charges around the court with fierce determination and energy and never gives up until the end, no matter the score.
Eight-time Grand Slam champion Jimmy Connors's style was similar when he played. The American did not have Nadal's incredible athleticism and shot-making abilities, but his determination in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s was superb.
Although he is a huge admirer of Nadal, Connors said on his podcast that the Spaniard's style has led to the physical breakdown of the last two years and that it was inevitable.
"He was willing to go out there and lay it all on the line every time. It didn’t matter what the score was, whether he was up or down or whatever, he was going to give it his all until the very end. Hence, it’s a breakdown."
Connors compared how Nadal plays to Roger Federer, stating that the Swiss moved elegantly around the court while Nadal was a grinder who made matches more of an intense physical battle.
"Federer moved more elegantly across the court, but Rafa was a grinder. You know, get down and dirty with him. That’s why on clay, his shirt and socks were dirty. I love that about him."
Considering his intense style, Connors feels Nadal's longevity has been impressive. He also said that an era coming to an end after his, Federer's, and Andy Murray's retirement is a reality tennis fans have to accept.
"I go back again to the way he played. 38, that’s a good innings he’s had. He’s had a good 18, 20 year career and everything that he put into it. 22 Slams and how many other tournaments to go along with that."
"He’s done his time and he’s gotta be proud of that. Everybody else is feeling the pain of Federer leaving and now Rafa leaving, [Andy] Murray, and ‘Djoker’ (Novak Djokovic) is no spring chicken either. Facts are facts and that’s the end of an era."