‘Idol’ Rafael Nadal’s Motivational Words Revisited Fondly by 20YO ATP Phenom Ahead of Stiff Test in Saudi Arabia

Ahead of the ATP Next Gen finals in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, fans got to witness the impact legends like Rafael Nadal have had on the younger generation. The Spanish tennis legend’s inspirational words have motivated the young phenom, Abdullah Shelbayh, who is currently looking forward to participating in the showpiece event in Jeddah.

Over the years, Rafael Nadal has always taken a great interest in uplifting young talents, either during his casual chats on the side of the courts or via his Rafael Nadal Tennis Academy. Recently, Jordanian tennis icon Shelbayh revealed the motivating words spoken by the ‘King of Clay’ during one of his casual meetings with Rafa.

ATP next-gen star shares Rafael Nadal’s wise words

Throughout his career, Rafael Nadal’s dedication and fighting spirit has inspired many young talents to emulate his incredible work ethic. Recently, a new member was entered into the list of tennis entities who sing the praise of the Spaniard. Abdullah Shelbayh, the 20-year-old Jordanian tennis star, revealed the wise words of Nadal, who met him after his victory in Charleston.

“He (Rafael Nadal) told me that it was a big step in my career, and that I had to enjoy it and not be happy,” the Jordanian revealed. Abdullah Shelbayh further continued, “He told me that he couldn’t be happy with just one result because everyone is trying to improve at the same time, so you have to continue with what you have built. That doesn’t mean you’re going to win every tournament, but you have to keep up the good work and not miss these important moments that help you move towards your goal. It was very special to hear those words from someone like him, who has been my idol since I started playing tennis.”

Shelbayh, who will be playing at the Next Gen ATP Finals in a few weeks, revealed this experience along with the excitement of heading to Saudi Arabia for his upcoming opportunity that could greatly benefit his professional career. His revelation was just another in a plethora of testimonies that have captured Rafael Nadal’s incredible impact on not just the ATP Tour, but the entire tennis world.

Nadal’s fighting spirit’s influence on Iga Swiatek’s journey

The Jordanian tennis icon isn’t the only one who draws motivation from the journey of Rafael Nadal. The current WTA World No.1 Iga Swiatek, has also revealed in the past about the influence of Rafael Nadal’s signature never-give-up attitude. Swiatek, who recently clinched the WTA Finals title, said in an interview with Vogue in 2022, “It really gave me extra motivation and even more grit on court when I really needed that, so I’m grateful to have been able to spend some time around Rafa too.”

ALSO READ: Despite Novak Djokovic’s Phenomenal Records, Former ATP Star Rates Rafael Nadal Head and Shoulders Above the Serbian

The 22-year-old Polish player added that she admired Nadal’s wit and humor, that he carries both on and off the court. Currently ranked number one in the world, Iga Switaek’s words clearly depicted the Spaniard’s incredible impact on the next gen of tennis.

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