Rafael Nadal is retiring from professional tennis. Photo / Photosport
Rafael Nadal has announced he is to retire from professional tennis.
The 38-year-old Spaniard, who won 22 grand slam titles including 14 at the French Open, revealed the news in a video message posted on X.
“Hello everyone. I’m here to let you know that I am retiring from professional tennis,” he said.
Nadal, the Wimbledon champion in 2008 and 2010, has struggled with various injuries over the past couple of years.
He added: “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.
“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.”
Even at age 38, the world No 55 is a huge drawcard for the Auckland tournament.