Retiring Nadal tempers fairytale expectations

Rafael Nadal has had to tamp down expectations of a dream finish to his storybook career when the Spanish icon retires after next month’s Davis Cup Finals.

The 38-year-old with 22 Grand Slam titles – including 14 at Roland Garros – announced recently that he will hang up the racquet after several seasons cut to the bone by injuries.

But the veteran had to calm expectations for a dream wrapup at the Finals in Malaga when he spoke to sports newspaper AS.

“I haven’t expected much from the end of my career for a long time, because one realises how difficult everything is and I don’t believe in movie endings.

“Almost nobody has movie endings.

“It’s very difficult in sport to have them, unless it’s someone who really gets to the point where they’re healthy and can win.

“But they don’t really enjoy what they do anymore. Then, yes, you can retire winning.”

Nadal is expected to team with protege and former fellow No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz in the farewell weekend in front of a home crowd as Spain bid for the Davis trophy.

“When you’re passionate about what you do, it’s very difficult to retire at 100 per cent and also winning. 

“I simply hope to be healthy enough and prepared to enjoy the moment and try to help the team.

“In 2004, in the Davis Cup, I had my first great joy as a professional tennis player. And finishing in the final phase of the Cup again, for me, is a good way. 

“I hope that it can end positively, regardless of whether I play or not.”

Main photo:- Rafa Nadal winning Queens Club Final 2008 by Karl Winter International Sports Fotos Ltd