Rafael Nadal says he’ll solely play on the French Open subsequent month if he feels “succesful sufficient to compete”.
Spaniard Nadal, a 14-time champion at Roland Garros, missed the French Open for the primary time in 19 years via damage in 2023.
The 37-year-old has indicated he plans to retire after the 2024 season.
He’s set to make a farewell look on the Madrid Open this week and faces American 16-year-old Darwin Blanch within the first spherical on Thursday.
“If I used to be in Paris right now, I would not exit to play,” Nadal mentioned.
“I do not assume I will be capable to play at 100% but it surely’s vital to have the ability to play for the final time in Madrid. It means quite a bit to me to play on this courtroom the place I’ve had some nice moments.”
Nadal made his most up-to-date comeback from damage following a three-month absence on the Barcelona Open final week, successful his opening match earlier than dropping to Australian Alex de Minaur.
The 22-time main winner has solely performed 5 matches since January 2023 due to hip and belly accidents. A former world primary, he’s at the moment ranked 644th.
The French Open, the second Grand Slam event of the yr, begins on 26 Might.
“Few weeks [ago], I did not know if I can play once more on the skilled tour. It is not excellent however at the very least I’m enjoying and I can take pleasure in once more, particularly within the tournaments which are so emotional for me. I will benefit from the enjoyable that I can say most likely goodbye on courtroom,” Nadal mentioned.
He added: “With out making an attempt to confuse anybody, I do not know what is going on to occur within the subsequent three weeks.
“I will do the issues I’ve to do to have the ability to play in Paris. And if I can, I can and if I am unable to, I am unable to. I will Paris if I really feel like I am adequate. I will Paris if I really feel succesful sufficient to compete.”