As tribute articles to former world #1 Rafa Nadal flood the internet following his official retirement from professional tennis, here at Tennis Europe we wanted to chip in with something a little different – a look back to his time on the TE Junior Tour.
Rafa first appeared on the Tour in 1998, winning the prestigious Auray Super 12 title. 2000 was arguably his most successful year: then 13, he claimed Category 1 titles as Les Petits As (the trophy is still on display at the Rafa Nadal Museum in Mallorca) and Ste. Genevieve des Bois. He qualified for the Junior Masters that year, and swept to victory to claim the most important individual title of his young career. In parallel, Rafa was also gaining experience in team events, anchoring the Spanish 14 & Under team to a runner-up spot at the 2001 Winter Cups, and going unbeaten in 2002 on his last Junior Tour appearance to lead Spain’s 16 & Under team to the Summer Cups title.
His renowned ambition, focus and humility were evident even then, as seen in this clip following his win at Les Petits As:
That Rafa has inspired millions of young players is hardly a secret and he remains incredibly popular among today’s junior players.
Rafa’s involvement with Tennis Europe didn’t end in 2002 with that 16&U Summer Cups title. Today, his academy in Mallorca (the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar) hosts 64 of Europe’s best 12 & Under players each November for a unique and spectacular Festival of tennis, a season ending highlight for the players of this age group. Ever the tennis fan, Rafa keeps a close eye on proceedings and has even been known to watch matches, greet players and pose for photos.
So we’d like to say GRACIAS, RAFA!, for giving us a lifetime of thrilling moments, and for continuing to give back to tennis in a way that benefits young players. We wish you all the best for whatever’s next, and will see you at the next Carlos Moya 12 & Under Festival.