Reuters
Tennis – Australian Open – Men’s Singles Final – Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia – January 31, 2022 Spain’s Rafael Nadal celebrates after winning the men’s singles final with trophy REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY/Reuters
Reuters
Tennis – Australian Open – Men’s Singles Final – Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia – January 31, 2022 Spain’s Rafael Nadal celebrates after winning the men’s singles final with trophy REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY/Reuters
Rafael Nadal must be on Cloud 9 right now. The Spaniard has had a dream start to the 2022 season. He made a terrific comeback on the ATP tour after spending the latter half of the previous season on the sidelines owing to an injury.
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The 35-year-old won the first tournament on his return. Further, he defeated Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in the summit clash of the Australian Open. It was a historical moment as he became the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles.
Moreover, many former players and people across the globe praised the Spaniard for his stunning comeback victory. Social media was abuzz with congratulatory messages for him. Additionally, the former World No. 1 has another reason to rejoice after some delightful news could be in store soon.
Rafael Nadal gives his take on touted prestigious honor
Palma de Mallorca International Airport, which is Spain’s third busiest airport behind Madrid and Barcelona, is set to be named the Rafa Nadal International Airport, according to reports. Furthermore, this comes after thousands of fans had backed an online petition calling for the airport to be renamed after the Spanish legend.
Reuters
Tennis – Australian Open – Men’s Singles Final – Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia – January 31, 2022. Spain’s Rafael Nadal in action during the final against Russia’s Daniil Medvedev REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake
Nadal himself was delighted after the news broke out. He said, “If the people that have to decide that they think it’s appropriate for Palma airport who am I to say no? I’d be delighted.”
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The online petition, which has been supported by thousands, reads, “Rafa Nadal is without doubt the best tennis player in history and certainly the best ambassador the island of Majorca has. Nadal represents the values that should be an example for all: humility, honesty, education, sacrifice, tenacity and effort.”
Reuters
Tennis – Australian Open – Men’s Singles Final – Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia – January 31, 2022. Spain’s Rafael Nadal celebrates winning the final against Russia’s Daniil Medvedev. REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake
In terms of tennis, the 21-time Grand Slam champion would be looking to continue his strong start to the season as he has confirmed his participation at Indian Wells in California.
