Muscat: The 22-time Grand Slam champion, known for his remarkable dominance on the clay courts, especially with a record 14 French Open titles, shared the news in an emotional video posted on social media.

Nadal, who has captured a staggering 92 ATP singles titles and 36 Masters titles, reflected on the difficult decision to step away from the game on an official statement on social media. “It is obviously a difficult decision, one that has taken me some time to make. But in this life, everything has a beginning and an end,” Nadal said.

The Spaniard’s last professional appearance will mark the end of an illustrious career that saw him win an Olympic gold medal and complete the rare Career Golden Slam in singles, a feat achieved by only two other men in tennis history.

Nadal’s retirement comes after pulling out of the 2024 Laver Cup, where he had planned to make his final on-court appearance. His career has been punctuated by unforgettable moments, including his partnership with longtime rival Roger Federer in doubles during Federer’s farewell match at the 2022 Laver Cup in London.