Rafael Nadal hints at retirement plans after he is spotted at Le Mans 24 Hours
RAFAEL NADAL has hinted that he might give endurance racing a go after he finishes his tennis career.
Nadal added a remarkable 11th French Open title to his record on Sunday, beating Dominic Thiem 6-4, 6-3, 6-2 at Roland Garros to lift the trophy for the second year in a row.
The 32-year-old turned professional 17 years ago but has shown no signs of abating in tennis and is still world No 1.
But when Nadal does eventually hang up his racket, he has hinted he could swap it for the steering wheel.
“We can try. But I’m very bad. I’m going to go slow but I’m going to have fun,” Nadal said when an interviewer at Le Mans 24 Hours race suggested the FIA might be able to arrange a private test for him.
Spain's Rafael Nadal waves to supporters prior to the start of the 86th 24-hour Le Mans endurance race, in Le Mans, western France, Saturday, June 16, 2018. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)
Nadal was in northern France for the start of the historic race, where he was afforded the honour of waving the “Tricolore” which commences the annual event.
And with fellow countryman Fernando Alonso on pole but not starting in the car - team-mate Sebastian Buemi drove the first stint - tennis’ second-most successful player marked the start with aplomb.
