Nadal was eliminated from the US Open: 'Rafa' revealed his plans outside of tennis after the defeat.

Rafael Nadal arrived at the US Open as one of the top contenders and with the hope of conquering another Grand Slam trophy. As the tournament progressed, the Spanish confirmed the pre-tournament sensations. Until he crossed paths with the inspired host Francis Tiafoe, who eliminated him with scores of 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, and 6-3.

"I am completely happy to recognize that he was much better than me", admitted the Manacorí, after the unexpected defeat against the number 26 of the ATP. "There are no excuses", added the 'Fiera', who this season won the titles of Australia and Roland Garros. At Wimbledon, he reached the semifinals but retired due to injury.

Precisely, the physical problems that have been plaguing him for some time put into doubt what will happen with 'Rafa's career. In fact, before saying goodbye to the US Open, the athlete announced that he will take a break to reflect but will take advantage of the time to share with his loved ones.

What did Nadal say after being eliminated from the US Open?

Nadal and his wife Mery Perelló will soon be parents for the first time. Therefore, the Mallorcan wants to enjoy that moment to the fullest. "Now I have to go back home, I have more important things than tennis to take care of. Personal life always comes before professional life," he confessed.

In this sense, the 36-year-old athlete added: "When I can, I will continue with my professional life as well and I will try to return to training and do a mini preseason to be able to finish the year in Europe with good sensations," he said from New York, the venue of the competition.

When will Nadal play again?

Although 'Rafa' Nadal announced that he will take a break to attend to private matters and did not specify the period he will be away, the Spaniard has a commitment. The presence of the 'Fiera' is expected at the Laver Cup on Friday, September 23, and Sunday, September 25.

Nadal is part of the European team with Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray (the known Big 4), as well as Stefanos Tsitipas and Casper Ruud. Meanwhile, the rest of the world team features figures such as Félix Auger-Aliassime, Taylor Fritz, Diego Schwartzman, Jack Sock, John Isner, and Alex de Miñaur.

Is Nadal the number one in the world?

Despite the elimination in the US Open round of 16, Nadal can become the number one in the world. The Spanish will take the place of Russian Daniil Medvedev only if his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz or Norwegian Casper Ruud do not reach the final at Flushing Meadows.