Rafael Nadal started playing when he was 4, and was guided by his uncle, Toni Nadal, who remained his coach after he turned professional in 2001 at the age of 15.
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He used both hands to hit on both sides of the court during his early years. Based on his coach and uncle's suggestion, he started using his left hand to play.
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From aligning his water bottles with the labels facing the court to making sure he walks over the lines with his right foot, he is a strong believer. He always carried two bottles, one slightly warmer than the other.
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"King of the Clay" is how people identify him. In clay court history, Rafael Nadal's 81-match winning streak from 2005 to 2007 stands as the record. El Nino, Rafa, Rafi, and Spain's Raging Bull are some of his nicknames.
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At Wimbledon 2008, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer played the longest final in the tournament's history which lasted for 4 hours and 48 minutes.
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An asteroid known as "128036 Rafaelnadal" was named in his honor in 2003 after he defeated Roger Federer in the 2008 Wimbledon tournament.
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With 14 titles, Rafael Nadal has won the most number of French Open titles. His final win in 2022 helped him become the second-oldest player to achieve the title at the age of 37
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In addition to his love of tennis, Rafael Nadal is a loyal supporter of the Real Madrid Football Club. He's been to several of their games and has become friends with a few of the players.
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Nadal and Federer have a close connection and mutual respect off the court, despite their intense rivalry on the court. They commonly team up for exhibition matches and work together on other charitable activities.
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On the field, Rafa's relationship with watches is noticeable. He has a collaboration with famous watchmaker - Richard Mille. He claims that the watch fits him like a second skin.
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Nadal is well-known for his philanthropy and engagement in a number of charitable causes. In order to support underprivileged children's access to educational opportunity, he founded the Rafa Nadal Foundation.
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Beyond the tennis court, he has an intense love for cooking. He is a culinary Maestro whipping up mouthwatering dishes.
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