Do you know what every athlete misses the most during their playing career? It’s spending time with family! And if they have a child, the challenge becomes even greater than one could imagine. Fortunately for Rafael Nadal, his retirement in November 2024 came just two years after the birth of his son, Rafael Nadal Junior, allowing him to embrace fatherhood without the pressures of the constant ATP tour. And, at a recent Gala event, the Spanish icon offered a heartfelt glimpse into his post-retirement life, sharing how he now manages to cherish every moment spent with his family, especially with his little one.
The 14-time Roland-Garros winner didn’t have the privilege of ending his career on a high note, despite dominating the 27-foot court for over 23 years playing professional tennis. Reason? A relentless battle with injuries. Though the Spaniard had been dealing with injuries since 2003, when he was just 17, his career took a significant downturn after suffering an abdominal tear right before Wimbledon 2022. Even the injury forced him to withdraw before his much-anticipated SF clash against Aussie star Nick Kyrgios.
However, things only got worse when he sustained a hip muscle injury, the one Rafa never fully recovered from, ultimately leading to his retirement in November 2024 after playing his last match at Davis Cup Finals. But who doesn’t dream of better days? Rafa was recently spotted at “Mundo Deportivo’s Gran Gala” in Barcelona on February 3rd, where he shared his heartfelt experience of spending time and playing with his son, Rafael Junior.
He quoted, “I haven’t picked up a racket again. I will do it at some point, but since that goodbye in Malaga (November 20), I have only played for a while with my son at home. I just try to organize myself outside of what sport has been. Without wanting to, I already have many things of work that I can’t avoid, but I need some time to decide what I want to do, beyond what I have to do because it’s inevitable”.
Remember last year’s Six Kings Slam final between Rafa and Carlos Alcaraz? After the final, where he lost to Carlos 6-3, 6-3, the Spaniard spoke at the in-court interview, sharing his views about his family, especially his son watching him play. “Well, I don’t think I’m great. Since he arrived to the world I lost more than I won [but] at the same time having him here helps all the tough moments I’ve been through the last couple of years. He behaves very well even when it’s late. I’m happy,” Rafa added.
Despite a limited playing time towards the end of his career, Nadal’s retirement plans are unfolding smoothly as he enjoys quality time with his son, as well as his family. And, following the same event in Barcelona, the 22-time GS winner also shared his thoughts on leading a more regular life post-retirement, hinting at a future with fewer injuries and more moments of peace.
‘Now I can go downstairs without anything hurting’ Rafael Nadal life after retirement
22 Grand Slams in 23 years, an unbelievable feat that only Nadal could achieve, thanks to his unwavering passion for tennis. But don’t you think it came at a certain cost to dominate the sport for so long? At least staying at No. 1 in the ATP rankings for a staggering 209 weeks is no minor achievement, especially in an era with legends like Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray competing. But what did it take?
Well, 13 major injuries throughout his playing career that he had to overcome before claiming the title of “The Greatest Spanish Athlete” at the Mundo Deportivo Grand Gala on February 3rd. However, there, he reflected on how life after retirement brings fewer injury concerns, allowing him to enjoy a new chapter with simple tasks he once could not think of doing.
Speaking to Sergio Heredia, the Spaniard added, “The best thing about it now is that I’m living with little pain. I’m going through a good time. Now I can go downstairs without anything hurting”. He also provided his honest opinion about being permanently ‘out-of-practice’ since last November.
“Since I retired a few months ago, I’ve been a little out of this world for a while. I’m happy. I feel happy to share this day with all of you, at this Gala surrounded by athletes,” Rafa said.
The career of the Spaniard might have ended, but off the court, he remains a sporting inspiration, especially to his fellow countrymen Carlos Alcaraz. Eventually, the sporting world will be eager to see the Spanish icon pick up his racquet once again, even if just for a charity match in his backyard!
The post ‘Played a Little With My Son’- Rafael Nadal Gives a Sneak Peak Into His Post-Retirement Life With a Candid Touch appeared first on EssentiallySports.