As tennis legend Rafael Nadal nears retirement, his 22-month-old son, also named Rafael, is showing signs he may continue his father’s legacy in major tournaments. The younger Rafael watched his dad compete in the Olympics for the last time.
Rafael Jr. demonstrated his tennis skills by swinging a ‘Pure Aero Babolat’ racket as his father won his first doubles match with Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz against Argentine opponents. Unlike his left-handed father, who naturally plays right-handed, Rafael Jr. used both hands for his forehand and backhand strokes while sitting on his mother María’s lap.
The toddler also showed his agility, wandering along the aisle under his mother’s watchful eye during the one-hour and 47-minute match. Like any child his age, Rafael Jr. displayed restlessness, requiring entertainment from his mother and grandmother.
When he lost interest in the match and his racket, his mother gave him a bottle of milk. As the French crowd chanted Nadal’s name in recognition of his record at their home tournament, Rafael Jr. joined in the clapping, encouraged by his mother and grandmother. He also waved the Spanish flag in honor of his father, representing Spain at the Olympics and a former Olympic gold medalist.
Rafael Nadal, who has earned $135 million in prize money during his illustrious career,is expected to retire soon.
