Rafael Nadal outlines next plans after Olympics fairytale dashed ahead of retirement

Rafael Nadal has revealed his short-term plans after being knocked out of the 2024 Paris Olympics. On Wednesday, Nadal and partner Carlos Alcaraz lost 6-2 6-4 to the fourth-seeded American duo of Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram, ending the icon’s hopes of a fairytale finish.

In his final summer Games, Nadal was already out of the individual event after beaing beaten by Novak Djokovic. The 38-year-old has already returned to his home in Mallorca, and has spoken out on his future. “It’s time to rest and take some time,” he told IB3 TV. “And in a few days I’ll be able to analyse everything these months have been and know what I really want.”

Nadal is widely expected to retire ahead of the 2025 season, but is yet to confirm the date when he plans to walk away. His latest comments however, suggest a decision could be pending.
The match at Court Philippe Chatrier, the same stadium where Nadal has won his record 14 French Open titles, could yet prove his last. And a capacity crowd seemed aware of the possibility as they created a partisan atmosphere in favour of the ‘King of Clay’.

The ‘Nadalcaraz’ partnership had been considered a dream one by tennis fans, with the all-time great alongside the sport’s newest star. And despite missing out on a fitting end to his Olympic legacy, the 22-time Grand Slam champion insisted he enjoyed his experience in Paris. And on Instagram, he thanked his compatriot, who has since won through to the semi-finals of the indivudual event. “Thank you Carlitos for these days, which were fantastic in many ways,” he wrote.

“Unforgettable experience with you and the whole team. And now most importantly, let’s go for the medal, you are closer after today, you can achieve it. We are all with you!” Alcaraz is two games away from emulating Nadal, who won gold at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. He also took the doubles title in Rio eight years later, while paired with Marc Lopez.

Nadal also thanked supporters, adding: “Thanks to all of you, all sports fans who made these Games special with so much warmth and love. Even though I didn’t have the result I was hoping for, you all made me feel great. “Now it’s time to go back home, enjoy some holidays and think about what’s next. For those of you who will start holidays like me, enjoy!”