Every tennis player looks for an edge. That one key advantage to overcoming their rivals, as well as their inner doubts and fears, is what creates the ‘champion’s mindset’. For 18-year-old tennis ace, Alex Eala, that secret advantage isn’t simply a preparation routine or a specific shot. It is training with one of tennis’ biggest superstars: Rafael Nadal. In an exclusive interview, the 19-year-old shared an endearing confession about mental composure, where she also added details about her ‘fangirling’ moment with the 22-time Grand Slam champion.

The Filipino uncovered the life lessons gained from Nadal and the sweet memories she shared with the ‘King of Clay.’ Eala, the 2022 US Open junior champion, has earned attention for her meteoric rise in the tennis rankings. She embarked on this path after enrolling in the Rafa Nadal Academy in Spain at the young age of 13.

Rafael Nadal and his mentorship fueled the 18-year-old WTA star’s rise in tennis

Alex Eala’s love for Rafael Nadal isn’t simply professional; it’s profoundly personal. The Philippine tennis ace tenderly depicted herself as a “fangirl” of the ‘King of Clay.’ The title reverberates with tennis lovers who respect Nadal for his on-court splendor as well as for his steadfast hard-working attitude and sportsmanship.

According to the Olympics.com, Eala revealed, ” He’s someone with so much knowledge and so much experience on the tour so I’ve learned a lot from him.” Eala revealed insights into what makes Nadal a tennis legend as well as a noteworthy mentor. In the interview, she shared admiration for, “his focus and his mental composure.” She also added, “He’s someone with so much knowledge and so much experience on the tour so I’ve learned a lot from him.”

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Nadal’s remarkable abilities left a permanent imprint on Eala. She saved her most noteworthy admiration for Nadal’s psychological mettle, a quality that has characterized his career. She respects his resolute concentration and mental self-restraint. Eala highlighted how Rafa can fight tenaciously during challenging moments while maintaining his calm and motivation throughout matches.

Nadal once shared admiration for his student, Eala at the RN academy

The Rafa Nadal Academy stands out as a premier training facility in tennis coaching, led by none other than Rafa’s uncle, Toni Nadal. It has become a hub for aspiring tennis talents, offering them invaluable exposure to the sport’s finest. What sets this academy apart is Nadal’s involvement. The Spanish GOAT often practices with young athletes, providing them with unparalleled inspiration and guidance.

In 2021, the Philippines witnessed a momentous occasion as one of its rising stars, Eala, reached her first professional final at an ITF event in Spain. Eala’s journey to this point is deeply intertwined with her training academy, where she honed her skills and garnered the attention of none other than Nadal himself. His excitement was palpable as he dropped a comment on an Instagram post from the academy.

Coach Daniel Gomez, a key figure at the Rafa Nadal Academy, has been instrumental in Eala’s development. He had highlighted Eala’s aggressive playing style and her proficiency in executing a well-placed drop shot. His words had indicated the evolving improvement of the star.

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