Rafael Nadal Speaks ‘From the Heart’ About His Place in the Grand Slam Race

Rafael Nadal recently reflected on his legendary career, sharing how he feels at peace despite being sandwiched between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in the Grand Slam tally. The 38-year-old tennis icon opened up about how injuries may have cost him more titles, but he holds no regrets.

Content with His Career Despite Injuries

Nadal has always been candid about his injury struggles. In a recent interview with Diario AS, he discussed missing out on many Grand Slam opportunities due to these setbacks. Despite this, Nadal expressed immense gratitude for his career achievements, emphasizing that he doesn’t dwell on the “what ifs.”

“Maybe, but… In the end, it is obvious that I have missed out more than all my rivals, in terms of chances of winning Grand Slams. But the reality is that this has happened to me. I am never one to think ‘if I had done it’ or ‘if I hadn’t had’ (those injuries). It has been like this, and with it, I have had a career that I would never have imagined and I am more than happy.” – Nadal

A Healthy Ambition to Be the Best

While Nadal admitted he had the ambition to lead the Grand Slam race, he remained steadfast in maintaining a healthy balance between competition and personal well-being.

“You want to be the best when you are in competition, because it is the nature of sport. I have wanted to be the best, or at least I have wanted to try to be the best. But that has never led me to have an obsession with it.”

Peace with Federer and Djokovic’s Grand Slam Count

In his legendary career, Nadal claimed 22 Grand Slam titles, placing him just behind Novak Djokovic (24) and ahead of Roger Federer (20). Yet, Nadal doesn’t measure his happiness by the number of titles.

“I’m not even the slightest bit more satisfied than Federer for having 22 and he 20. And I don’t think I’d be any more satisfied or happy if I were 25, one more than Djokovic’s 24. I say this from the heart.”

A Triumphant Exit

Nadal’s announcement of his upcoming retirement after the 2024 Davis Cup Finals broke the hearts of tennis fans worldwide. Despite missing several Majors due to injuries, Nadal’s legacy remains untouchable, with 14 Roland Garros titles to his name. His candid reflection offers a glimpse into the mindset of a true champion who never let setbacks define his success.