Rafael Nadal To Retire From Tennis: 'Everything Has A Beginning And An End' — Watch His Announcement

Tennis great Rafael Nadal announced on Thursday that he is retiring from the sport.

Nadal broke the news in an Instagram video (which you can watch below), confirming that the 2024 Davis Cup will serve as his final tournament appearance.

"The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially," Nadal told his followers. "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. And I think it's the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been longer and much more successful than I could have ever imagined."

Nadal went on to thank his fellow tennis players ("especially my great rivals"), his team and his family, before expressing gratitude to his fans.

"I can't thank you enough for what you have made me feel," he concluded. "You have given me the energy I needed at every moment. Really, everything I have experienced has been a dream come true. I leave with the absolute peace of mind of having given my best, of having made an effort in every way. I can only end by saying a thousand thanks to all, and see you soon."

Nadal, now 38 years old, has been playing tennis professionally since he was 14. Across his 24-year career, he has become a legend in the sport, with accomplishments including 22 Grand Slam men's singles titles and the rare Career Golden Slam, which includes victories at the Australian Open, French Open, U.S. Open, Wimbledon and an Olympic gold medal.

Watch Nadal's retirement announcement in full below, then drop a comment with your reactions to the news.

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