As Daunting Challenges Threaten His Tennis Career, Arab Tennis Sensation Finds Solace in Rafael Nadal’s Uncle’s Big Three Insights

Over the years, Toni Nadal, the uncle of Rafael Nadal, has played a huge role in tennis. It was he who was the early coach and mentor of Nadal as he entered the tennis circuit. Subsequently, their partnership worked wonders, as Nadal went on to become one of the best players the sport has seen. Not only has Toni worked with Nadal but also with other players like Felix Auger-Aliassime. Additionally, the 62-year-old was also a part of Nadal’s academy in Mallorca, coaching young players. Recently, Arab tennis sensation Abdullah Shelbayh revealed that he took inspiration from Nadal’s uncle.

During his childhood days, Shelbayh moved to the Rafael Nadal Academy to take his game to the next level. While being there, he came across Toni, who played a key role in developing him. Here’s what he said about Toni.

How did the uncle of Rafael Nadal inspire Abdullah Shelbayh?

Shelbayh has trained at Nadal’s academy since the age of 14. A connection between Toni Nadal and his representative, Princess Lara Faisal helped Shelbayh get to Nadal’s academy. Princess Lara Faisal, is a part of the royal family of Jordan, Shelbayh’s native country. As a result, Toni flew to Jordan to recruit him at Nadal’s academy.

Despite creating history with his wonderful performances, the Arab tennis sensation faces economic difficulties. During this tough phase, he revealed how conversations with Toni have helped him.

Talking about this, he said, “Toni has talked to me a lot about this, basically he told me that even the best, Rafa, Novak, and Roger, have had their ups and downs, that it’s a very normal thing, that you can’t let it take away all your confidence, you can’t let it affect your daily work because sometimes your motivation can disappear, you don’t work as well as you should.”

Further, he went on to add, “He kept reminding me of the fact that I have to keep working hard to get out of those moments as quickly as possible.” Shelbayh is a big fan of Nadal. He even once snubbed Federer for him during his childhood.

DIVE DEEPER: Despite Novak Djokovic’s Unprecedented Grand Slam Glory, Rafael Nadal’s Salty Uncle Stays Firm on His Stance as He Shows Profound Roger Federer Bias

When Shelbayh picked Nadal over Roger Federer

Earlier this year, the Arab tennis sensation created history by winning his first ATP Challenger title in Charleston. Following this victory, he recalled a wonderful anecdote from his childhood days as he opened up about his favoritism for Nadal.

Talking about that incident, he said, “I started playing right-handed. I only knew 2 players as a kid Roger & Rafa. I didn’t know Rafa’s name just saw him play on TV. So I said ‘Let me try it out.’ I’d play 1 day w/ left & 1 day w/ right. My dad said I had to choose 1 hand. So I chose the left.”

Despite the financial difficulties, the Arab tennis sensation continues to rise with wonderful performances. However, he will be striving for consistency as he aims to take his game to the next level.

WATCH THIS STORY – Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian Ends The Tennis GOAT Deebate Once And For All As He Pushes Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic To The Backseat