Rafael Nadal played the final match of his illustrious tennis career at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, closing the curtain on a journey that captivated the sports world. The legendary Spaniard faced Botic van de Zandschulp in Spain’s quarter-final clash against the Netherlands, falling in the opening rubber of a narrow 2-1 defeat. According to Forbes, he leaves with a staggering $134.9 million in career prize money, cementing his status as the second-highest-earning player in ATP history, behind only Novak Djokovic.
Nadal’s decision to retire stems from physical challenges and a desire to end his career representing Spain internationally. His remarkable career has earned him 92 singles titles, including 22 Grand Slam crowns and 36 Masters 1000 victories.
Prize Money Compared
Nadal’s prize money earnings reflect his extraordinary dominance and longevity in the sport. He spent 209 weeks atop the ATP rankings, finished as year-end No. 1 five times, and achieved an unprecedented streak of 912 consecutive weeks in the top 10 between April 2005 and March 2023. His career prize money, only surpassed by Djokovic’s $185 million, places him ahead of Roger Federer ($130.6 million) and Andy Murray ($64.7 million). Nadal also holds three spots in the top 10 for the highest single-season prize money earnings, with his 2019 campaign alone bringing in $16.3 million.
While Nadal’s prize money earnings are staggering, they only tell part of the story. Nadal has amassed over $415 million through endorsements, appearances, and business ventures. His partnerships with brands such as Nike, Kia Motors, Richard Mille, and Telefonica reflect his global appeal and influence beyond tennis.
In 2024, Nadal focused on making his final matches memorable. Despite stepping away from regular competition, the 38-year-old competed with the same passion that defined his career, finishing with a 1080-228 singles record and a 142-77 doubles record. His farewell at the Davis Cup Finals was a fitting conclusion to a journey that began as a 15-year-old prodigy in 2001.
In 2024, most of Nadal’s matches came on his beloved clay. He reached the final for the first time since Roland Garros 2022 at the Swedish Open. He had used this tournament in preparation for the Paris Olympics after withdrawing from Wimbledon. The Spaniard played only one Grand Slam match this year, which came in a straight-set loss to Alexander Zverev in the opening round of Roland Garros. It was only his fourth loss at the event.
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
