Rafael Nadal Biography

Rafael Nadal is one of the top tennis players in the world and the winner of the last two French Opens. Find out more about this Spanish tennis star right here.

Rafael Nadal - Tennis Tot

Rafael Nadal was born on the island of Mallorca in Spain on June 3, 1986. He started playing tennis when he was just three years old, after watching his Uncle Toni play the sport at a local tennis club. Rafael's uncle began teaching him how to play tennis and by the age of 11, Rafael was winning youth tennis tournaments all across Spain.

Rafael Nadal - Teenage Tennis Titan

Rafael turned pro when he was 15 and by 2003, he was one of the top 50 ranked mens tennis players in the world. With his unique left-handed playing style and long hair, Nadal became a fan favorite both in Spain and around the world. In 2005, Rafael continued to work his way up the world rankings and won the 2005 French Open with a four set victory over Mariano Puerta of Argentina. On the road to the French Open final, Rafael also upset Roger Federer, the world's number one ranked player. Nadal repeated as French Open champ in 2006 and won his 60th straight match on clay court, making him the undisputed champion of clay-court tennis.

Rafael Nadal - Fun Facts

Rafael Nadal is nicknamed "Rada" by his friends and family.

When he's not dominating on the tennis court, Rafael Nadal likes playing video games, fishing and playing soccer.

Rafael is naturally right-handed, except when it comes to playing tennis, which he does left-handed. His Uncle Toni, who is still is coach, taught him to play left-handed when he was 10.

Rafael's Uncle Miguel was a Spanish soccer star, who played for Spain in soccer's World Cup three times.

Rafael Nadal says he doesn't have a girlfriend right now because he wants to devote all his energy to playing tennis.

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