​Rafael Nadal left the Australian Open in the second round, the Iberian left Rod Laver Arena injured. Speculations are growing about Rafa’s possible retirement from tennis and Toni Nadal (uncle and former coach) has provided some clarifications on this aspect.

Rafael NadalPhoto: Ella Ling / Shutterstock Editorial / Profimedia

Rafael Nadal is not thinking about retiring from tennis

Having been out of form at the start of the season, Rafa (36) also suffered an injury during the Australian Open. According to Toni Nadal, the uncle of the former ATP leader, medical problems will not allow him to train for at least another 3-4 weeks.

When asked by EFE if Rafa will retire from tennis this year (as has been speculated recently), Toni replied that the word “retirement” does not exist in the Iberian’s mind at the moment.

“If he gets his form and rhythm back and stays away from the medical issues, he will definitely continue (not playing tennis). Currently, he needs at least another 3-4 weeks of rest.

It will be tough with Djokovic (not to end his career with more Grand Slam titles than the Serb) and that’s because Nole is fresher than him.

He will have a chance at Roland Garros, let’s see what happens. And last but not least, it is very difficult to fight against a great champion like Djokovic.

Rafa knows that no matter what happens from now on, he has a career to be proud of.

For now, he’s making a big effort to keep playing. The word ‘retirement’ does not exist in his head,” Toni Nadal told EFE, according to Marca.

With the title in Melbourne (tenth of his career at the Australian Open), Djokovic tied Nadal for the all-time grand slam list.

An interesting battle for the championship between Rafa and Nole is announced at Roland Garros.

Ranking of Grand Slam titles

1. Rafael Nadal / Novak Djokovic 22

3. Roger Federer 20

4. Pete Sampras 14

5. Bjorn Borg 11

6. Jimmy Connors / Ivan Lendl / Andre Agassi 8, etc.

>> Rafael Nadal reacted to the fact that Novak Djokovic equaled him in the hierarchy of Grand Slam titles

>> VIDEO Stage of the day at the Australian Open: Nadal’s wife cries in the stands