Breaking: Rafael Nadal to play singles at Davis Cup Finals in Malaga

11/19/2024 06:24 AM

After a couple of days of doubt, Rafael Nadal's situation is clear! Rafa will enter the Davis Cup Finals tie between Spain and the Netherlands, competing for his country in singles against Botic van de Zandschulp. Rafa arrived in Malaga early and worked hard to shape up his form. 

David Ferrer was happy with the legend's progress, picking him over Roberto Bautista Agut. Nadal will retire this week in Malaga, and he wants to give everything to help Spain win the first Davis Cup title since 2019. Five years ago, Rafa scored eight wins from as many matches in Madrid, lifting a beloved trophy for the fourth time. 

Nadal last played in this competition five years ago. However, he had no doubts about where he wanted to end his career - wearing the national jersey once again after debuting for Spain two decades ago! The veteran is 2-0 against Botic van de Zandschulp, having beaten him at back-to-back Majors two years ago.

Larga vida al tenis español 👑🇪🇸👑#DavisCup#CopaDavis I #VamosEspañapic.twitter.com/jcnT3XbQ0v

— Tenis España (@RFETenis) November 18, 2024

The 22-time Major winner has played only 23 matches since the beginning of 2023, experiencing a severe hip injury that ruined the closing stages of his career. Nadal missed almost an entire 2023 season after that Australian Open blow. He worked hard in the second part of the year, wishing to end a career on his terms. 

Rafa entered seven tournaments in 2024, giving everything to regain his old form but failing due to his body's limitations. The 38-year-old scored 12 victories and reached an ATP final in Bastad, his first in over two years. However, he struggled on the big scene and decided to terminate his tennis journey. 

Nadal has not played official matches following an early Olympic Games loss to Novak Djokovic. He skipped the US Open and revealed his retirement, citing the Davis Cup Finals as the last event of his incredible career.