Rafael Nadal's Uncle Toni Reveals Where His Retirement Might Come
ATPSunday, 26 March 2023 at 10:00
Updated at Friday, 04 April 2025 at 17:17
Although Toni Rafael is not Rafael Nadal, the Spanish coach knows more than most, as his uncle, so when he speaks, people listen.
Recently, Toni Nadal talked about his nephew's possible retirement, also admitting that he doesn't talk to him about his game anymore. Rafael Nadal is not enjoying his best days, tennis-wise, as the Spaniard is closer to retirement than ever.
It’s been an open topic with him for a while, but it wasn’t until this year that the realization of its proximity started to sink in. He hasn’t been playing much, has been dealing with injuries more frequently, and isn’t getting any younger.
These are objective reasons why fans are increasingly discussing the Spaniard's retirement. When it comes to the big decision, Toni Nadal, his uncle, likely knows more than the rest of the world. After all, he coached him for many years and presumably talks to him almost daily.
In a recent interview with the Spanish publication MARCA, Toni Nadal discussed Rafael’s potential retirement, noting that it could happen either in Madrid or at Roland Garros, both of which are very fitting venues.
"In Madrid or at Roland Garros. The time will come and he will decide. When you lift trophies you convince yourself that you still have something to give. It's hard to retire winning. I think Sampras did."
Toni Nadal added a caveat to his statement, though. He mentioned that he hasn’t spoken to Rafael about it yet and that if it were up to him, his nephew would continue playing.
"I haven't talked about Rafa about that. I don't know how much he has left. If he recovers well completely, let him keep playing and we'll see."
Time will tell what ultimately happens, but it’s pretty clear that the moment is drawing closer. When it happens, it will be as sad a day as when Roger Federer officially retired, because very few people know what tennis looks like without them in it.
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