by Beth Rifkin
Sport is a universal language – tennis is a universal sport – and the language of tennis always includes love – so it’s no wonder that many tennis pro’s like to universally “spread the love” to those less fortunate.
After traveling around the world on the ATP Tour, world number two Rafael Nadal has recognized that his abilities as a world-class tennis player provide him with fortuitous opportunities. To give back and positively use his image to help others, he has established the Rafa Nadal Foundation, formally launched last month. The Foundation will concentrate on using sport as an integration tool for those groups most in need, focusing particularly on children and youth.
"A month-and-a-half ago I was in Chennai, in India. The truth is we live great here. And if I can contribute something with my image..." said Rafa on his website.
Though only 21 years old and planning a long career as a tennis pro, Rafa looks at the Foundation as the beginning of his future. Moving slowly to assure quality in its execution, Rafa will be wholeheartedly involved in the Foundation’s endeavors and plans to give 100% effort, just as he does on the court.
The Rafa Nadal Foundation is a private entity, based in Rafa’s hometown of Manacor on the island of Mallorca, Spain. The approach will be start local and expand global, first helping those nearby in Spain’s Balearic Islands.
Chairing the Foundation will be Rafa’s mother, Anna Maria Parera, and his father, Sebastian Nadal, will serve as vice-chairman. Rafa’s uncle and coach, Toni Nadal, and his agent, former pro Carlos Costa, will also be involved.
Not nearly as giving or compassionate when on the court, this week Rafa will attempt to defend his title at the Pacific Life Open in Indian Wells, CA. Taking place from March 13 to March 23, the Pacific Life Open is the first ATP Masters Series event of 2008. Last year Rafa was crowned champion when he defeated Novak Djocovic 6-2, 7-5.
Doesn’t need to be said but, despite showing us his soft side, I don’t think Rafa’s opponents should expect to feel any love on the court.
Vamos Rafa!
Champion Cause is part of TennisStar’s One World, One Sport series.
March 13, 2008
