Rafael Nadal hinted that this year would be his final year on the ATP Tour again, in contrast to some optimistic prognosis a few months ago.
The Spaniard returned earlier this year in January and won several matches in Australia. Despite that, he remained quite reserved about his near and long-term future, stating that he doesn't know how things will go.
At the same time, there were some indicators that Nadal might play beyond 2024 if everything goes well, but it didn't take long for things to turn for the worse. He suffered a setback in Australia, which caused him to miss a few weeks.
He postponed his comeback to the Indian Wells Open and returned a few days before that at the Netflix Slam against Carlos Alcaraz, but then he also withdrew from Indian Wells.
He then withdrew from the Monte-Carlo Masters, and even the most optimistic of his fans got a reality check that this was not going as many had hoped. Now, he's coming this week in Barcelona but he also admitted that he treats it as his last time.
"Before regretting where I have not been, for me, it is a gift to be in Barcelona… my last year and I want to enjoy every moment. I feel ready to play tomorrow. I don't think about how I get there. I know what the situation is, that I'm just preparing, but I'm realistic. For me, being here is a joy."
Obviously, Nadal assumes that 2024 will be his final year on Tour, which he said twice during the press conference. He wouldn't rule out a future beyond 2024, but as things stand now, this is the most likely scenario.
"I take this as my last participation here. I don't know what will happen in the future, but I am going to try to give myself the best opportunity. The week of training has been positive and I am leaving with the hope of doing my best."
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