Rafael Nadal makes huge retirement admission involving Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic
RAFAEL NADAL, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic will all take part in the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells this week - but Nadal's revelation will shock fans.
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Rafael Nadal has been in poor form heading into Indian Wells, losing in the final of the Australian Open and in the last 16 of the Mexican Open.
The Spaniard is hoping to step up his preparations for May’s French Open by winning at Indian Wells, but faces a tough ask with both Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic also competing.
Ahead of tomorrow’s draw, Nadal has made a stunning admission about the future of tennis, by revealing that he, Federer and Djokovic are in the final stages of their careers.
"Things are not eternal, years go on and we are in the final stage of our career. It's a fact,” Nadal told sponsor Banco Sabadell.
Nadal went on to express his intention to delay the time he has to quit tennis for as long as possible, and his certainty over life after tennis.
“I hope it doesn't happen soon,” he said.
“But I am convinced I can be happy without tennis as well."
Nadal has won 17 Grand Slam titles since turning professional in 2001, which is two more than Djokovic and three less than Federer.
We had a relationship of full respect on and off the court
The 11-time French Open champ has discuss his relationship with Federer and Djokovic, and how he appreciates their competition.
"I appreciate them for the many experiences we shared,” he added.
“We had a relationship of full respect on and off the court.
“This is a game - you win, lose, it's part of our lives."
The 32-year-old lost in straights to Djokovic in January’s final, and gave his opinion on how it feels to win and lose.
"I am a good loser,” Nadal continued.
“Losses hurt me, obviously, but I still had excitement and passion.
"Greats are not those who triumph, but the people who want to help others.
“The best examples of people are those who are in the day-to-day lives of each person."