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Casper Ruud has echoed Novak Djokovic’s plea for Rafael Nadal to keep playing tennis ahead of the legendary Spaniard’s retirement
The Norwegian admitted he was slightly surprised when Nadal announced his decision as he thought the former world No 1 might “give it one more try” on clay next year.
Nadal, who played his first professional match in 2001, will play the final event of his staggering career at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, which will be staged from November 19-24.
The 38-year-old was beaten by Novak Djokovic at the Paris Olympics in his last competitive singles match in July, while he also faced his Serbian rival at the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh last month.
Following the pair’s meeting in Saudi Arabia, Djokovic lauded Nadal and urged him not to retire.
“Congratulations for all the titles and amazing career to you and your team,” Djokovic said in an on-court speech. “I wish you all the best of luck for the future.
“I will finish with one big thank you, from not just me, but all of the tennis world for what you have done. You left an incredible legacy and we really appreciate it.
“Don’t leave tennis man, stay a little bit longer, stay with us.”
