Boris Becker has urged tennis fans and journalists to stop pressuring Rafael Nadal to retire from the sport and to give him the time he needs to come to terms with leaving the sport.
Nadal fell to a resounding loss to Novak Djokovic 1-6, 4-6 on Court Phillippe-Chatrier at Roland Garros in the second round of the men’s singles event at the 2024 Olympic Games.
The 38-year-old was well off the pace against his great rival and even though he is still competing in the men’s doubles, he is fading in terms of his ability to play on the surface that gave him most of his success. He is seeking a third Olympic Games gold medal and second in doubles having partnered Marc Lopez in the 2016 Games.
“It’s a very personal decision,” Becker told Eurosport. “Tennis is his livelihood and something he loves doing so successfully for such a long time.
“We should give him the time he needs. We’re not in his shoes. He knows he’s not playing at the level he did a couple of years ago, but he still loves to compete. We shouldn’t be telling him what to do next.”
“I hope it comes to a good end. At some point, every individual athlete has to recognise the end. Here he had a perfect performance. The red carpet was rightly rolled out for him – an absolute sports icon.
“The doubles matches, like Murray and Evans’ win, as well as the singles matches, have been electrifying. It’s great to see the sparks flying for everyone,” Becker said.
“Regarding Andy Murray, he’s had an incredible career, winning three majors against players like Nadal, [Roger] Federer, and Djokovic. His personality and character are very unique.
“Announcing that this is his last Olympics adds to the appreciation we have for him. It allows us to give him the recognition he deserves.”
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