Rafael Nadal Gives Major Update on Coaching Future

Rafael Nadal Explains Why Coaching Is Not on His Radar Right Now

Nadal’s current life is very different from the one he had during more than two decades on the ATP Tour. With two young children and several responsibilities away from tennis, the former World No. 1 does not believe he can currently give a professional player the commitment required from a top-level coach.

“To be a coach? Never say never. But, I have two young children. I have many other things in my life today that occupy me on a daily basis,” Nadal said.

The Spaniard also knows exactly what the job would demand. Coaching a professional player would mean dedicating himself to that player’s career, including the extensive travel that comes with life on the ATP Tour.

Nadal spent more than 20 years traveling around the world as a player, and stepping into coaching could put him right back into a lifestyle he is now trying to leave behind.

“So I don’t think that my current life allows me to be or imagine being a coach in the way that it requires to be a good coach and dedicate yourself professionally to serving a professional player as they deserve,” he added.

That does not mean Nadal has completely ruled out the possibility.

Nadal Leaves Coaching Door Open for the Future

While coaching a professional player is not on Nadal’s immediate agenda, he refused to put a permanent end date on the possibility.

“So, it’s not in my head at all right now. I don’t know in five years from now what might happen.”

That leaves Nadal’s coaching future open, even if there is no indication that he plans to join a player’s team anytime soon.

For now, the Spaniard remains closely connected to the sport through the Rafa Nadal Academy. Nadal said he is always willing to offer guidance to the young players there when they need his help.

“In the end, I am here to give support to the boys and girls of the academy when they need it. I’m always open to being able to give a hand to whoever asks me to.”

Nadal’s comments came during the Rafa Nadal Academy Slam, which marked the academy’s 10th anniversary and brought the Spaniard back onto the court for an exhibition event in Manacor.

Team Rafa, featuring Nadal alongside Carlos Moyà, David Ferrer and Richard Gasquet, defeated Team Andy Murray 4-3 in the unique doubles tiebreak format. Murray’s side featured Marat Safin, Dominic Thiem and Fabio Fognini alongside the former World No. 1.