After retiring last November, Rafael Nadal returned to the public with high spirits. On Tuesday, February 11th, the Spanish Olympic Committee (Comité Olímpico Español) held a tribute event in Madrid to celebrate the unparalleled achievements of tennis legends.
After retiring in November 2024, the Spaniard, who was in the spotlight, was awarded the prestigious “Corazon de España” award by Spanish NOC President Alejandro Blanco.
At the ceremony, Nadal’s immense contribution to sports and his legacy highlighted his legacy as one of the greatest athletes. Among the many accolades, the 38-year-old received a photo of a signed canvas commemorating his 2016 gold medal victory.
Adriana Serezo, Taekwondo’s silver medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, was one of the athletes attending the event. Her excitement was evident when she met the athlete she had admired for a long time. Serezo shared his joy on Instagram, posting a selfie to the tennis legend and captioned it.
“Super Special Day yesterday with @rafaelnadal and @Coe_ES. I’m so grateful to be able to listen and learn from the greatest athletes in history.”
The 22-time Grand Slam Singles champion re-shared her story and expressed her gratitude.
“Come and thank you for your words!”
Rafael Nadal reveals that he has not touched a tennis racket since his retirement
Rafael Nadal has admitted that he has not touched tennis rackets since he retired from the sport in the Davis Cup final in Malaga in November 2024. Spanish legend explained that his priorities are shifting to finding purpose beyond tennis. Life into the game.
“Life is going well for me. I’m fine. I’m adapting to a new stage. They don’t make me bored. I’m doing what I have to do. Life is so I don’t get bored.” he said (citations collected and translated at olympics.com). “For me, the greater satisfaction than everything else is being able to retire in peace.”
“I’m active and I like to do things. Now is the time to organize the next chapter. At the moment, I’m adapting well. I play a bit of football, but ever since then, rackets I haven’t picked up!” he added.
Alejandro Blanco, chairman of the Spanish Olympic Committee and host of the event, proposed that the 38-year-old be a member of the Olympic Committee.
What foot injuries have been bothering Rafael Nadal for many years? Check here
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From Sport Kida
Edited by Samya Majumdar
