Champion and gentleman
Belated happy birthday, Rafael Nadal (“As Rafael Nadal turns 30, let's celebrate what he has given tennis instead of mourning his injuries”)! My father, also named Rafael, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer three years ago. He had just won a body-building contest in his age category – he was 69! Everybody referred to my father as Rafa too. The last time my dad called me was when he was in hospital, and it was to let me know that Nadal had just won a tournament. Of course, I had been watching the match so this wasn’t news to me, but it was a special moment between my father and I. My father knew I admired Nadal not only as a tennis player but also as a human being. And I know that he is watching with me from heaven when Nadal plays. I thank Nadal for the amazing times I had watching him play. And whenever and however he chooses to continue with the sport, I will support him! – Gina Gutierrez
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Well put! As a Nadal fan, I hope he takes time to heal completely before trying to make a comeback. If it turns out that he is unable to re-enter competitive tennis, I will be thankful for the many years of joy he has given me while watching his unbelievable victories. Thanks for an intelligent and fair article. – Margo
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This is such a refreshing and honest account of Rafa and his contributions to tennis. This is rare coverage at a time when mindless sound bytes and black-and-white reporting in the truth-be-damned style is so prevalent. Thank you for the article and for rekindling the hope that real and honest talent is still alive. Rafa is someone whom even the biggest champions would be afraid of facing-off against. – Vanamali K
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I'm a big Rafa fan from London and thanks for writing such a great article. It comes at a time when I’m wishing Rafa could have played the French Open because things had been finally coming together for him after a poor show in 2015, compared to his high standards. Instead, he’s nursing an injury that could rule out the chances of playing the next grand slam too – but this article brought a smile to my face.
You make a very valid point when you talk about the media scrutiny of Rafa’s injuries – often blaming him for them – which can come across as unsympathetic. Nadal isn’t appreciated enough for his accomplishments – he’s achieved more than what many players can even dream of! – Natalie
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This is such a refreshing article, a celebration of Rafa. He was a true gentleman on the court, which is a rarity. I await Rafa’s return. Tennis isn’t the same without him and his fighting spirit! – Mary
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This is a wonderful article about an amazing athlete, who also has incredible charisma. Rafael Nadal is truly unique. He exudes goodness and kindness. He brought drew in millions of viewers were never fans of the game before he entered the scene. Thank you Rafa and I pray you heal soon. – Kathleen Whyte
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Very well said. The media are doing with Rafa what they always do pretty much on all other subjects – emphasising on the negatives and ignoring the positives. Rafa has nothing to prove, he has already let his game speak for him. To me, he will always be one of the greats, along with Roger Federer. – Joan Jennings
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Rafa has been a favourite ever since his first match. He’s a champion on the court and a wonderful man off it. I think he’ll try his utmost to get back to the game. If, however, he is unable to ever compete again, it will be a great loss, but he has given us much to celebrate regardless. We have been fortunate to have seen him play for about 15 years. – Barbara Ball
