Nadal Wins Sports Legend Award, Admits “Don’t Miss Tennis
Nadal Says He Doesn’t Miss Tennis After Retirement
MADRID (AP) — Rafael Nadal, the Spanish tennis icon, stated he “doesn’t miss tennis” after receiving the Sporting Icon Award at the Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid on Thursday.
Nadal, 38, officially retired from professional tennis after his final appearance at the Davis Cup in Malaga, Spain, last November. Throughout his illustrious career, he secured 22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Open victories.
Life After Tennis
Speaking to reporters after the Laureus ceremony, Nadal addressed his feelings about retirement.”To be honest, I don’t miss tennis,” he saeid. “Not at all.”
He clarified that his decision to retire was not due to a lack of passion for the sport. ”I didn’t retire as I was tired of tennis or competition, at all,” Nadal explained. “I ended my career with joy,and if the situation allowed,I would keep playing because I loved what I was doing.”
A Passion Unchanged
Nadal emphasized his enduring love for tennis. “This is my passion, and it has never changed,” he stated. “It’s just that when you realise that your body can no longer hold on… you will try to end this chapter. And I’ve already finished it.”
Battling Injuries
Throughout his career, Nadal faced numerous injury challenges, which ultimately influenced his decision to retire. “I delayed making the final decision because I needed time to make sure that the decision was right,” he said.
”The difficulty is that when I was sitting on the couch, I was wondering if I should continue to try to fight,” Nadal added. “When I found that my body couldn’t get back enough to keep enjoying the game on the court, I decided it was time to finish it.”
No Regrets
Nadal concluded, “That’s why I don’t miss (tennis). Because I know I’ve done my best, I’ve had no regrets, and my body can’t continue to play.”