Rafael Nadal is finally nearing the end of his incredible career (Photo: Getty)
Carlos Alcaraz “hopes” Rafael Nadal does not retire in November, despite rumors he will play his final event in the Davis Cup final.
Nadal, 38, is finally nearing the end of his incredible career and has spoken about plans to hang up his racket several times this year.
While the other stars of the Big Four, Roger Federer and Andy Murray, have already retired, Novak Djokovic will only leave when Nadal decides to lower the curtain.
The latest rumor is that Nadal will play his final professional event in Malaga in just two months – but Alcaraz is desperate for his fellow Spaniard to continue.
“I hope it won’t be the last time for him,” said Wimbledon champion Alcaraz when asked about Nadal’s possible retirement from the Davis Cup.
“It’s always great to have Rafa around. I miss him. I’m not going to lie, I missed him at the Laver Cup.
“Obviously, as much time as I get to spend with him, it’s a privilege for me. I don’t want to think this is a potential last dance for him in Malaga.
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz team up for the Paris Olympics (Photo: Getty)
“I just want to think that I will try to live or enjoy his time, enjoy seeing him on the field as much as possible.
“Obviously it’s a big support to have him on the team. He can bring a lot of experience to the Davis Cup.
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“For me, it will be my first Davis Cup final. This is going to be a great experience for me.
“Having the chance to spend more time off the pitch, on the pitch too, with him, it’s going to be great for the Spanish team and I think for the country as well, that we play in Spain.”
Alcaraz and Nadal teamed up for the Paris Olympics this summer, but the duo failed to secure a doubles medal for their country.
The Spaniards lost in the quarterfinals against Americans Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram.
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