Tennis legend, Rafael Nadal has confirmed that he will retire from the sport at the end of the 2024 season.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion made the announcement in a video message released on Thursday.

Nadal has battled a series of injuries over the last two years, which have severely limited his time on the court.

In 2023, he hinted that 2024 could be his final year on tour, and after enduring more physical setbacks, he has now confirmed his decision to retire.

“I am here to let you know I am retiring from professional tennis,” Nadal said in the video.

“The reality is that it has been some difficult years, the last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations.”

The 38-year-old Spaniard missed most of the 2023 season due to a hip injury. He returned to competitive action in 2024, but was hampered by further injuries.

Rafael Nadal. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

He made a highly anticipated return at his beloved French Open, where he holds a record 14 titles. However, his campaign ended in a shocking first-round defeat.

Since then, Nadal has only competed in two more events—Båstad where he reached the final and the Olympic Games.

He missed the Wimbledon and the US Open.

Nadal is expected to conclude his illustrious career with Spain’s squad at the Davis Cup Finals, scheduled for November 19-24.

The tennis icon retires as the second-most successful men’s singles player in history, with 22 Grand Slam titles, including a remarkable 14 French Open crowns.

He also claimed four US Open titles, two Wimbledon titles, and two Australian Open victories.