Former Wimbledon champion Garbine Muguruza has given fans a glimpse into Rafael Nadal’s off-court personality, admitting “he’s very shy”.

As Nadal’s illustrious career winds down, speculation about his possible retirement is rife, especially after his recent withdrawal from the Laver Cup. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has only participated in two of the last eight major tournaments since 2022, although he did compete at the Paris Olympics.

Despite his absence from the recent US Open, Nadal was expected to play at the Laver Cup in Berlin but pulled out last week. This has sparked questions about his future, with Nadal remaining tight-lipped about when he may he compete next.

While Nadal exudes confidence on the court, fellow Spanish ace Muguruza has revealed that he’s quite different away from tennis. Two-time major winner Muguruza retired earlier this year, aged 30, and shared her insight on Nadal’s personality as he ponders his next step.

“It’s hard to know him. He’s very shy,” Muguruza told Tennis.com. “We talked a little bit at the Laureus Awards in Madrid earlier this year. He said, ‘This is my last year,’ but he didn’t share anything else. I don’t want to ask him personal questions.”

Former world No.1 Muguruza can particularly relate to Nadal’s predicament. The 30-year-old had been battling injuries before announcing her retirement but admitted she has no regrets about ending her 12-year career.

“I was so ready,” Muguruza said. “Life was sending me signals to me physically. I was just looking forward to that next chapter.” While it’s unknown when Nadal may choose to hang up his racket there have been hints that he’s set for a final flourish.

After relaying to Muguruza that this could be his final year, the Davis Cup Finals in November could be a fitting place for Nadal to make his grand exit. Spain have reached the quarter-finals and team captain David Ferrer has spoken about picking Nadal for the event in Malaga.

“I spoke to Rafa, but we don’t know anything yet,” Ferrer explained. “There is a possibility that he could be with us in Malaga in November. His goal was the Olympics this year, then he stopped. He needed to rest and spend time with his family, so it was right not to call him up now.”

“I will speak to him later. The important thing is that he is well,” Ferrer added. “If he arrives in good condition in November, he would certainly be a player we can count on. There is plenty of time to define the team that will take to the field in Malaga. Now they have to focus on the tournaments. I have a lot of good players to choose from.”