Tennis legend Rafael Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, has announced that he will retire from professional tennis at the end of this year. The 38-year-old Spaniard will play his final event at the Davis Cup in November, marking the end of a remarkable career that spanned over two decades.

In a heartfelt video message posted to social media, Nadal reflected on his decision, revealing the physical toll the sport had taken on him, particularly over the past two years, as recurrent injuries to his back and foot limited his performance. “The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations,” Nadal said. “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’s retirement marks the end of an era for tennis fans, who have watched him grow from a mop-topped teenager into one of the greatest athletes of all time. He turned professional in 2001 at the age of 14 and skyrocketed to fame by winning his first Grand Slam title at just 18, clinching the French Open in 2005. Over the course of his career, Nadal reached 131 tournament finals, winning 92 of them, including a record-breaking 14 French Open titles.

Known for his relentless determination and proficiency on clay, Nadal once won 81 consecutive matches on the surface, a feat unmatched in tennis history. In 2010, he became the youngest man to complete the Career Golden Slam by winning all four major titles and an Olympic gold medal. His love for the game, humility, and genuine passion made him a fan favorite, earning him a statue at Roland Garros, home of the French Open, long before his retirement.

While Nadal was fierce on the court, he was equally beloved off it for his kindness and authenticity. Unlike many athletes who adopt a hardened persona under the spotlight, Nadal remained humble and approachable, always with a smile and a sincere word for those around him. His retirement, in many ways, feels like the departure of the emotional core of the sport.

As Nadal steps away from tennis, he leaves behind an extraordinary legacy—one defined not only by his 22 Grand Slam titles but also by the joy and heart he brought to the game. His presence will be missed, but his impact will be felt for generations to come