Rafael Nadal announces retirement from professional tennis

Rafael Nadal has announced his retirement from professional tennis.

The 38-year-old, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles, announced 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," the Spaniard said.

"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."

The 14-time French Open winner, who also boasts four US Open titles and won Wimbledon in 2008 and 2010, has struggled with various injuries over the last few years.

Nadal admitted in May last year he was staring at the end of his career and that he hoped to be able to play a final year on tour in 2024.

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