Casper Ruud, one of the rising stars in men’s tennis, has joined Novak Djokovic in urging Rafael Nadal to extend his legendary career a bit longer. Ahead of Nadal’s impending retirement, Ruud has expressed his surprise and slight disappointment, sharing Djokovic’s sentiment that tennis isn’t quite ready to say goodbye to one of its greatest icons.
The Norwegian player admitted he believed Nadal might make one more attempt to return to the clay courts, where he has reigned supreme for much of his career. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, announced that he will conclude his career at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, set for November 19-24, marking the end of a remarkable journey that began in 2001.
The decision came as a surprise to many, including Ruud, who spoke candidly about his feelings regarding Nadal’s announcement. In a press conference following his victory over Carlos Alcaraz at the ATP Finals, Ruud conveyed his admiration for Nadal while sharing his thoughts on the Spaniard’s retirement plans.
“Caught me a little bit by surprise that he announced it,” Ruud admitted. “I was maybe thinking he would give it one more try during the clay next year.”
Ruud’s comments echo Djokovic’s heartfelt plea to Nadal during their recent exhibition match in Riyadh at the Six Kings Slam. Following the match, Djokovic delivered an on-court speech that resonated with fans and players alike. “Congratulations for all the titles and amazing career to you and your team,” Djokovic told Nadal. “I will finish with one big thank you, from not just me, but all of the tennis world for what you have done. You left an incredible legacy, and we really appreciate it. Don’t leave tennis, man. Stay a little bit longer, stay with us.”
The affection and respect that Djokovic and Ruud share for Nadal speak to the immense impact he has had on the sport and on his fellow players. His battles on the court have inspired countless athletes, and his humility and work ethic have set a high standard for the younger generation. Ruud, now a consistent top-10 player himself, highlighted the unique excitement that Nadal brings to the game, drawing attention to Nadal’s enormous fanbase and his status as a true legend among his peers.
Reflecting on the depth of Nadal’s influence, Ruud shared a moment that underscored the Spaniard’s unique allure. “One match that showed it quite clearly to me was during Roland Garros this year,” Ruud recalled. “There were a lot of players that came out to watch Rafa-Zverev. Typically, you don’t have [Iga] Swiatek, Novak, Carlos [Alcaraz], everyone coming out to watch the first round of a Slam. But when it’s Rafa, it’s different.”
This magnetism, Ruud noted, is what sets Nadal apart. Even as the ATP Tour evolves and younger stars like Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and himself rise to prominence, Nadal remains a central figure who captivates both fans and players alike. His influence extends beyond his victories and records, reaching into the very culture of tennis, where he is not only respected but deeply admired.
Ruud’s admiration for Nadal is personal, too. He acknowledged that he will be watching Nadal’s farewell tournament on television, but he won’t attend in person. “I won’t go. I’ve played and seen enough tennis during the year, so I’ll watch it probably on TV, but hopefully on a beach, quiet, just relaxed,” he said with a smile. Despite not being there, Ruud’s respect for Nadal’s legacy is unmistakable, as he expressed his hopes for a fitting conclusion to the Spaniard’s career. “It’s going to be sad, and there will be some tears obviously. As a big fan myself, I hope they make it to the final, and you get to watch him at least for a few more days.”
In reflecting on Nadal’s struggles with injuries and pain over recent years, Ruud empathized with the mental and physical toll that the sport has taken on the 38-year-old. Nadal’s career has been defined by fierce dedication and an ability to push his body to its limits. Yet, as Ruud pointed out, there comes a time when even the most determined athletes must prioritize their health and well-being.
“At the same time, I know he’s been struggling with a lot of pains and injuries. It just tears you down mentally,” Ruud acknowledged. “At some point, you call it a day. I think it will be a nice finish for him.” Ruud’s words reflect the bittersweet nature of Nadal’s retirement: while fans and fellow players would love to see him continue, they understand the need for him to step away on his own terms.
The retirement of Nadal marks the close of an era in men’s tennis. Along with Roger Federer, who retired in 2022, and Andy Murray, who has struggled with injuries in recent years, Nadal’s exit signifies the gradual departure of a generation that defined the modern era of the sport. Djokovic remains the last active player among the “Big Four” and, as Ruud noted, the Serbian’s words in Riyadh captured the sentiment felt by fans and players worldwide.
“I think it was inevitable, obviously, with Roger, him, Andy, and Novak kind of being the last of those guys who will retire at some point,” Ruud said. His acknowledgment of the changing landscape in men’s tennis underscores the respect he has for these iconic players while simultaneously marking the transition to a new generation.
As Nadal prepares for his final appearance, Ruud expressed his hope that the event would celebrate the extraordinary career of one of tennis’s most beloved figures. “I hope he has the kind of retirement that he deserves,” he said, wishing Nadal “just the best for him for the next [stage].”
For Ruud, Djokovic, and countless others, Nadal’s retirement is more than just the farewell of a competitor—it is the departure of a hero, a role model, and a friend. His humility, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence have left an indelible mark on tennis, one that will endure long after his final match.
In the end, Nadal’s legacy is not solely about titles or accolades, but about the spirit he brought to the game and the way he inspired millions. As Ruud and Djokovic have shown through their heartfelt pleas, the tennis world is not ready to let go of Nadal just yet. His farewell at the Davis Cup Finals will be a chance for fans, players, and the sport itself to honor a champion whose influence extends far beyond the court.
