“I’ll not defend my Acapulco title next year” – Rafael Nadal reveals plans ahead of exhibition tournament in Mexico

Rafael Nadal and Casper Ruud will play a series of exhibition matches in Latin America including Mexico

Rafael Nadal has revealed that he has no plans of defending his Acapulco ATP title next year in Mexico. While announcing that he along with Ruud will be playing a series of exhibition tournaments in Latin America this month, Nadal hinted that this could very well be his last tournament as a professional player in Mexico. On November 21, Nadal and Ruud will play in Argentine capital Buenos Aires. Next matches will be held in Bogota (Colombia), Quito (Ecuador), Belo Horizonte (Brazil) and Mexico City.

Speaking about his plans ahead, Nadal said: “I’m excited to play in Mexico. Hopefully, the public will come to see us, and we can have a packed stadium. I have always felt very loved and supported, so I’m excited to play in Mexico City, with such a unique, symbolic environment.”The 22-time Grand Slam Champion further added: “It will probably be one of the last times I can play in Latin America as a professional player. I will not defend my Acapulco title next year, and I’m not sure I can return to Mexico by the end of my career. That makes the upcoming match unique and special, and I want to enjoy it. I hope the Mexican crown will feel the same so that we can have an unforgettable day together.”

Rafael Nadal looks forward to the ATP finals after first round loss at Paris Masters

Rafael Nadal has suffered a shock exit from the Paris Masters after losing to Tommy Paul in the very first round. Nadal did not look good in the final set, struggling physically and gathering dark clouds over his next tournament after losing serve three times. The Spaniard will be aiming to get back into shape and play his best game at the ATP finals in Turin.

Nadal had qualified for the ATP Finals for the first time in 2005. However, the Spaniard has never claimed the prestigious title, struggling to play at his best under a roof in the year-ending finale. Nadal has qualified for another edition of the ATP Finals in Turin, but his chances of winning the title are very slim given his current form and shape.

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