Why is Rafael Nadal not playing at Wimbledon? Everything we know

Rafael Nadal has confirmed that he is not playing at Wimbledon this year, which suggests that he may never grace the SW19 courts again. The veteran Spaniard is nearing the end of his glittering career and previously hinted that he would retire at the end of 2024.

Nadal is best known as the ‘king of clay’ due to his incredible record at the French Open but has tasted success at Wimbledon on two occasions. His decision to skip the event came as a surprise, given its status as the most prestigious tournament on the calendar.

The 38-year-old has been plagued by injury over the last few years but appears to be fit and healthy after steering clear of any further setbacks. Fans across the world are desperate to see Nadal in action before he retires, but those at SW19 will be denied that privilege.

Express Sport takes a look at why Nadal has decided to skip Wimbledon this year…

After his French Open exit at the hands of Alexander Zverev, Nadal confirmed that he would not be playing at Wimbledon or any other grass court events. He does not want to make the transition to grass courts before switching back to clay at the Olympics, where he is due to represent Spain.

He is hoping to prepare for the Olympics in the best possible way as he seeks a third gold medal, having won the singles event in 2008 before securing doubles glory in 2016.

Earlier this month, Nadal said: “With this goal, we believe that the best for my body is not to change surface and keep playing on clay until then. It’s for this reason that I will miss playing at the Championships this year at Wimbledon.

“‘I am saddened not to be able to live this year the great atmosphere of that amazing event that will always be in my heart, and be with all the British fans that always gave me great support. I will miss you all.”