Rafael Nadal Casts Doubt on French Open Participation, Hints at Retirement Plans

Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, has expressed uncertainty about his participation in the upcoming French Open due to ongoing injury concerns. The 14-time Roland Garros champion hinted at a potential absence from this year's tournament and discussed his retirement plans ahead of his return to the Madrid Open.

During a pre-tournament press conference in Madrid, Nadal admitted that he would not be able to compete at the French Open if the tournament started today. "If I arrive in Paris the way I feel today, I will not participate," he stated. The Spanish tennis legend acknowledged that his current physical condition is not allowing him to compete at his best level.

Nadal, who is now 37 years old, returned to action in Barcelona last week after being sidelined with a hip issue. He has played only five Tour-level matches this year as he makes his comeback from injury. Despite some encouraging performances, Nadal has looked far from his dominant best.

The former world number one emphasized that he will only participate in the French Open if he feels competitive. "I will only compete at the French Open if I feel 'capable enough to compete well,'" Nadal said. He acknowledged that the world won't end if he doesn't compete at Roland Garros, but he is determined to do what is necessary to be ready for the clay-court major.

Why this matters: Nadal's potential absence from the French Open would be a significant blow to the tournament, as he is the most successful player in its history. His uncertainty also raises questions about his future in the sport, as he has hinted at retirement plans beyond the 2024 season.

Looking ahead, Nadal has set his sights on the 2024 Olympics in Paris as one of his remaining goals. He plans to retire after the 2024 season and is hoping to be competitive one last time at Roland Garros. "I still have goals after the French Open, like the Olympics," Nadal stated.

Meanwhile, Nadal is set to make his 17th appearance at the Madrid Open, where he will face 16-year-old American wildcard Darwin Blanch in the first round on Thursday. The tournament holds a special place for Nadal, and he is determined to compete there one more time, even if not at 100% fitness. "It means a lot to me to participate in Madrid one last time in my career," he said.

As Nadal continues his comeback journey, the tennis world eagerly awaits his decision regarding the French <a href="https://www.si.com/tennis/2024/04/24/rafael

Key Takeaways

• Nadal uncertain about playing 2023 French Open due to injury concerns
• Nadal plans to retire after 2024 season, aims for 2024 Olympics
• Nadal to compete at Madrid Open, but not at 100% fitness
• Nadal's absence from French Open would be a significant blow
• Nadal will only play French Open if he feels capable of competing well