'Tough moments I've been through..'- Rafael Nadal reveals reason behind losing his interest in Tennis

Rafael Nadal acknowledged that he is still working on regaining his fitness level to match that of the top players on the tour. In an exhibition match on Thursday, he faced fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who noted that the outcome felt somewhat bittersweet. 

At 38 years old, Nadal, who recently announced his retirement from tennis after the upcoming Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, fell to 21-year-old Alcaraz with a score of 6-3, 6-3 in the semi-finals of the, "Six Kings Slam" event in Saudi Arabia. Following the match, Nadal praised Alcaraz—this year's champion at both the French Open and Wimbledon—as an impressive competitor and recognized the need for him to return to his peak form.

Alcaraz acknowledged that the Saudi crowd might have favored Nadal, but he wanted to allow Nadal, a remarkable champion with 22 Grand Slam titles, including 14 French Open victories, to fully enjoy the support from the fans.

Leading up to Thursday's match, Nadal had last competed in singles at the Olympic Games in Paris, where his journey was cut short by his longtime rival, Novak Djokovic, in the second round. He also collaborated with Alcaraz in men's doubles at the Games and is likely to team up again for the upcoming Davis Cup Finals.

Nadal acknowledged his dip in interest in the Sport

Nadal shared his thoughts on his evolving relationship with tennis, noting a dip in both mental and physical interest. Ahead of his upcoming match against Djokovic, he described it as a nostalgic encounter, emphasizing the significance it holds for him. Regarding the Davis Cup Finals next month, Nadal expressed some uncertainty about his current form, reflecting his reduced engagement with the sport lately. However, he remains optimistic about regaining his fitness and readiness for tennis by the time of the finals.

"As for the Davis Cup Finals next month, I am unclear about the form I am in," he said. "Emotionally I'm sure I will be ready. In terms of physically, in terms of tennis level, I mean (there) remains a month" he added.

"I don't think I'm a great player in his eyes. Since he was born, I've lost more than I won. Having him helps me in all the tough times I've been through in recent years." -Nadal said.