‘Do More Better Things for My Country’ – Ukrainian Tennis Coach Shows Gratitude to Rafael Nadal Academy for Their Humanitarian Act

Arguably the greatest Spanish tennis player ever, Rafael Nadal inaugurated the Rafa Nadal Academy in 2016 in his hometown, Mallorca. Nadal’s uncle, Toni Nadal, is the head coach of this world-famous academy. Apart from him, Carlos Moya is the technical director and Marc Gorriz is the head coach of men and women players. The academy also has Junior Programs and adult programs to support players of all ages. Recently, Rafa Nadal Academy posted on their social media about acquiring a new coach for their adult programs. 

Rafa Nadal Academy hired a new Ukrainian Coach

On Twitter, Rafael Nadal’s Academy posted good news about appointing a new Ukrainian coach for their adult programs. According to their Twitter post, the name of the coach is Lusia Smetanina. 

“We would like to welcome Lusia Smetanina… Ukrainian coach who has become part of the technical team of the #RafaNadalAcademy by Movistar in our adult programmes,” Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar announced.

Meanwhile, the new coach also expressed her joy on her Instagram, as she thanked Rafa Nadal Academy. Also, this is a big move from Ukraine and Rafa Nadal Academy with the current situation in Ukraine. “Officially worker RNA… I swear that my heart will be always with Ukraine… But for now I start my new life and I believe that I can do here more better things for my country and for myself. So.. vamos… Muchas gracias @rafanadalacademy… Let’s do the work,” Smetanina wrote on her Instagram.

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Notably, Rafa’s academy in his hometown, Mallorca, is one of the best tennis academies in the world. It has various surfaces for players to practice, with a spa room, fitness center, and many more. Also, Rafa invited Roger Federer as a special guest during the inauguration of this academy in 2016. 

Rafael Nadal is currently facing some injury concerns 

After suffering a serious rib injury at the Indian Wells in March, Rafael Nadal is currently in a recovery process. Ahead of the clay-court season, this is a big blow for the 21-time Grand Slam champion. Earlier, he won the Australian Open to win his 21st Grand Slam title and became the only male player to acquire 21 Grand Slam titles. 

He was looking for his 14th French Open title and 22nd Grand Slam title in Paris. However, the injury may have halted his preparations. 

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Can Rafa win his 14th French Open title? Let us know in the comments.