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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 acknowledge that he was much better than me," admitted the man from Manacor after the unexpected defeat against the number 26 in the ATP rankings. "There are no excuses," added the 'Fiera', who has won the titles of Australia and Roland Garros this season. At Wimbledon, he reached the semifinals but retired due to injury.
Precisely, the physical problems that have been casting a shadow over 'Rafa' for some time now put into question what will happen with his career. In fact, before bidding farewell to the US Open, the athlete announced that he will take a break to reflect, but will also use the time to spend with his loved ones and on social media.
What did Nadal say after being eliminated from the US Open?
Nadal and his wife Mery Perelló will soon become parents for the first time. Therefore, the Mallorcan wants to fully enjoy that moment.
"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 regard, the 36-year-old athlete added: "When I can, I will resume my professional life as well, and I will try to train and have a mini preseason to finish the year in Europe with good feelings," 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 Spanish player 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 famous Big 4), as well as Stefanos Tsitipas and Casper Ruud. Meanwhile, the rest of the world team features players like Félix Auger-Aliassime, Taylor Fritz, Diego Schwartzman, Jack Sock, John Isner, and Alex de Miñaur.
Is Nadal the number 1 in the world?
Despite being eliminated in the round of 16 at the US Open, Nadal has the possibility to become the number one in the world. The Spanish player will take the top spot from Daniil Medvedev only if his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz or the Norwegian Casper Ruud do not reach the final at Flushing Meadows.