Table of Contents

1: Beginning of Tennis

2: Physical Training and Mental Strength

3: Style of Playing

4: Grand Slam Titles

5: What Influence Rafa Has on Young Tennis Players 

6: Photos

                       1: Beginning of Tennis

As a boy, Rafael Nadal always had a passion for tennis and soccer.  But Nadal's uncle, Tony Nadal, convinced Rafa that tennis would be better for him than soccer. Rafa began playing tennis at a very young age. He started training for hours and working hard, and, at the age of fourteen, he won a big tournament. Nadal was a very humble, mature, and smart guy because, after winning the match, when he was asked, "What do you think you'll do next?, He replied, “Carry on training, Winning this tournament is important, but it doesn't mean you're going to become really good – I just have to keep training, and then we'll see.” And so he did.

NADAL: “The daily effort. Forcing myself every day to do things well. Especially those that I don’t feel like doing. I’ve always done it since I was little. Self obligation to be better.”

              2: Physical Training and Mental Strength

     Yes, Nadal works very hard on the court. But he still has lots of concentration on his work off the court. In order to become a great tennis champion, Nadal learned that it was as important to have great conditioning off the court as it was to have on the court. He does footwork, weights, stretching and running. He does this in order to build muscle and have great flexibility. The secret to his success is that he stays consistent with his fitness plan. 

     In addition to his physical training, Nadal works on his mental strength so when he is down, he doesn't lose his cool. That is why Nadal has become one of the greatest tennis players in history. 

                              3: Style of Playing

     As Rafa fans all know, he is a very superstitious person. for example, when it is in between games and the players are switching sides, he makes sure his water bottle are positioned at the exact angle that he wishes. Also, as you can see in the picture to the left, before every serve, he performs a ritual. He touches his nose, runs his hand over his ear bounces the ball and finally serves. In addition, after he holds his serve, (it might be just me), but I notice that he never touches the lines on his way to his chair. in conclusion, people might think that these superstitions are very weird things but the truth is, it is not for us to decide because it works for him and he wins!