“Little Shy About This Stuff But…”: Rafael Nadal Opens Up on Racquets Named After Him

Superstar Rafael Nadal has opened up on a new, customized series of tennis racquets named after him. The 20-time Grand Slam champion not only had a feel of the new racquet last year but also played with it.

New series of racquets named after Rafael Nadal were put up for sale two days ago

Though not meant for sale initially, the makers made the racquets available for global purchase two days ago under the name ‘Pure Aero Rafa’.

In an interview for Babolat, a global sports goods manufacturer specializing in badminton and tennis equipment, Nadal said though he is “shy” about having his name on a new range of tennis racquets, he is delighted nonetheless.

“I’m a little shy about this stuff, but it’s great to have a racquet under your name,” the reigning French Open champion said.

Nadal, who lifted an unprecedented 13th French Open title last year, said he has been striking it well with his new racquet and the experience has been nothing short of enjoyable.

“I am enjoying (playing with the new racquet). It’s a great racquet,” Nadal said.

Rafael Nadal couldn’t follow up his 13th French Open title last year with his second Australian Open crown this year

The current World Number 3 couldn’t follow up the latest glory run at Roland-Garros with a second Australian Open title this year.

Coming into the tournament in the hope of doing a repeat of 2009 when he had outlasted old foe Roger Federer in five thrilling sets to lift the trophy, Nadal made short work of opponents to reach the semi-final.

With two sets to the good, the Spaniard was literally cruising his last-four clash against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas. However, an inexplicable mid-match slump, coupled with a heroic fightback from the current World Number 5, saw Nadal lose the next three sets to crash out of the tournament.

The Spaniard hasn’t featured in any Tour events since his Australian Open exit and recently announced his withdrawal from the upcoming Miami Open, citing back spasms.

Read More: Dominic Thiem Reveals He Would Love To Be In Rafael Nadal’s Shoes For a Day

Though the back pain saw him pull out of this year’s ATP Cup, he did manage a largely painless campaign at Melbourne Park.