However, the legend keeps things realistic, admitting he will not play in singles alongside Carlos Alcaraz if his teammates show better form. Nadal is ready to sit out the tie against the Netherlands and support his country from the stands, placing the team's result above his retirement.

Nadal is set to draw curtains on his career with the upcoming edition of the tournament as the 22-times Grand Slam champion hasn't played a competitive game since the Paris Olympics this year.

The 38-year-old Nadal has been on tour for more than 20 years and is the second member of the so-called Big Three of men’s tennis to stop playing. Roger Federer announced his departure in 2022, while Novak Djokovic is still near the top of the game.