‘Most Important Thing Was Education’ – Rafael Nadal Reveals Why He Never Loses His Cool On-Court

Controlling emotions while playing on the court has become a rare sight in tennis these days. A number of players are often spotted getting aggressive on-court, either verbally or by their actions. However, even after 20 years, one player who has not been spotted expressing his unruly emotions on-court is the Spanish legend, Rafael Nadal.

Today, 13th March, while speaking to the press after his second-round win at the Indian Wells, Rafael Nadal revealed the reason behind his self-control. The former World No. 1, who is ready to face 27th seed Daniel Evans in the third round; gives credit to his family for him having such control over his anger.

How Rafael Nadal controls his emotions while playing

Starting his Indian Wells campaign from the second round, Nadal faced a tough opening match, winning by just coming back from the edge. Attending the post-match press conference, Nadal was questioned about his views on his own fighting skills during a match.

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Taking pride in answering the question, Nadal took no time in crediting his family, and uncle Toni for his never-give-up attitude. He also credited them for his non-violent on-court behavior.

“The reason I have been fighting during all my tennis career, or I have the right to self-control, or I have the right attitude or fighting spirit on-court, during all my tennis career, is simple. I grow up with this kind of (tennis) education. My uncle, my family, never allowed me to break a racquet, never allowed me to say bad words or give up a match,” he said.

The importance of giving values during childhood

A person’s personality and behavior are determined by what the person is taught in his childhood. And the values he is entrusted from his elders. Nadal was no different. Elaborating on why he refrains from showing unruly behavior while playing; due to the values given by his parents, family, Uncle Toni, and his then coach. The values imbibed don’t let him show such behavior, on-court.

“Probably when I was a kid, they didn’t care much about winning or losing. Of course, all, the parents, and family, and my uncle, and coach wanted me to win every single match. But probably that was not the most important thing. The most important thing was education. The fact that I grow with the right values.”

The punishment for Nadal

The Spaniard spoke about how the teachings of elders helped Nadal in his career. The 21-Grand Slam champion also spoke about how values play a crucial role in the formative years of every child. However, the 35-year-old was not done yet. Rafael Nadal further detailed what would have been, or what will be the repercussion if he ever behaved like that on the court.

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“I didn’t have many chances. I had to do it that way. If not, I will not play tennis,” he said. “If I went on court and I create a circus or break a racquet or lose my self-control. I will not be playing the next tournament without a doubt. That’s why probably I have this mentality, ” He further added.