“I’d like to play Davis Cup one last time,” says Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal enjoyed a rollercoaster 2022, winning two more Grand Slams to take the outright lead on the men’s side of the record books, but also suffering with his chronic foot condition plus a stomach problem.

One might be expecting him to wind down a little. But now David Ferrer has taken over as Spain’s Davis Cup captain, the 36-year-old is tempted to extend his time with the national team a bit further.

After thanking former captain Sergi Bruguera, Nadal welcomed Ferrer’s new era, adding: “We have shared a lot.

“Regarding the Davis Cup, I am aware that I have few options left, but in my ideal world, I would like to play one last time and say goodbye. But there is a schedule and I do not know what will happen. Playing in Spain, with a very complete team, is an extra motivation. But the motivation to play for your country has always been maximum – but the years pass…”

Nadal: I’m not obsessed with winning

As for retirement, Nadal gave the same answer as always: “I don’t know, I don’t know what may happen tomorrow. But I know I’m always happy doing what I do. I can’t wait to start a new season. Then, the physical, the head and the results, we’ll see. I’m a contender to win the biggest tournaments and I like that. People think I’m obsessed with winning. And no, I am obsessed with competing.

“I’ve always been happy outside of tennis too. Fortunately, I have a lot of plans to enjoy and live for the future. I’m not afraid [of retirement].”

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