Carlos Alcaraz prepares for emotional Rafael Nadal reunion: 'I really want him to retire with a title'

Nadal was also named the ATP’s Fans’ Favorite award after a dominant season saw him move ahead of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in total Grand Slam victories.

ByKamakshi Tandon

Published Dec 21, 2022

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WATCH: Nadal won one of the best matches of the year over Daniil Medvedev to win his 21st major title at the Australian Open.

Rafael Nadal is eager to start next season, though still receiving awards for this year's wins.

The 36-year-old, who was named the ATP’s Fans’ Favorite last week, was once again the winner of the AS award in Spain, which recognizes Spanish sporting achievements. Having previously won the award five times, Nadal reclaimed it by setting a new Grand Slam record with his Australian Open and French Open victories this season.

Nadal was given the award this week at the AS ceremony, where he talked about returning to tour. Having been sidelined during the second half of the season with injury, he has added a new coach, Gustavo Marcaccio, to his team for next season.

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...There are always doubts...I had them at 20 and 22, and still at 36 and a half [years]. It's a gift, to still be active for another year. Rafael Nadal

"I am very excited," he was quoted as saying in Spanish. "We will have to find little by little the way the season will start, there are always doubts... I had them at 20 and 22, and still at 36 and a half [years]. It's a gift, to still be active for another year."

The No. 2, who kicked off a record 900th week ranked inside the Top 10 on Monday, is scheduled to start 2023 by playing United Cup, a new mixed team competition in Australia, before defending his title at the Australian Open.

Nadal returned to court to play a South American exhibition tour alongside Casper Ruud before commencing his off-season training.

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