Rafael Nadal recently opened up about his partnership with Saudi Arabia to promote tennis in the region. The tennis legend faced backlash after becoming an ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Federation in January.

Balancing Criticism and Ambition

After retiring, Nadal dedicated much of his time to family and the Rafa Nadal Academy. His new role as an ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Federation included establishing a tennis academy in the country to help grow the sport.

However, this partnership stirred controversy. Critics pointed to Saudi Arabia’s track record on women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Many fans expressed their displeasure over Nadal’s decision.

Nadal’s Response to the Backlash

In an interview with The National, Nadal addressed the criticism with his characteristic humility and resolve.

“So I accept the critics, especially I respect the critics who criticise things while respecting other people. When they don’t respect, it’s a different story,” he remarked.

He admitted he was aware of the potential backlash when he made the decision but stayed firm in his belief that his goals outweighed the criticism.

“At the end of the day, I know when I make the decision that’s going to be happening. But in some way I don’t care that much if I really achieve the goal that I want to achieve here. In the end, it’s to improve life, promoting sport in this country,” Nadal explained.

Embracing a New Culture and Inspiring Generations

Nadal viewed this partnership as an opportunity to explore a new culture while also promoting tennis and inspiring young players in the region.

“For me, it’s an opportunity, first of all, to know a different culture,” Nadal said.

He further elaborated:

“Second, to promote our sport in a region that is really growing in that regard. I want to be remembered here as a person who is here to help the new generations to practise and play more and more tennis.”

“Everywhere You Look in Saudi Arabia, You Can See Growth”

In January 2024, Nadal expressed excitement about contributing to Saudi Arabia’s growth and its potential in tennis.

“Everywhere you look in Saudi Arabia, you can see growth and progress, and I’m excited to be part of that,” he shared.

Nadal emphasized his long-term vision for the sport in the Arab world, aiming to inspire a passion for tennis among young people.

“Beyond playing, I want to help the sport grow far and wide across the world, and in Saudi, there is real potential,” he said.

Nadal’s Impact in Saudi Arabia

Last week, Nadal spent three days in Jeddah at King Abdullah Sports City. During his visit, he actively engaged with the community by attending the Next Gen ATP Finals, holding meet-and-greet sessions, and conducting tennis clinics with hundreds of kids.

By combining his passion for tennis and his openness to cultural exchange, Nadal continues to make an impact both on and off the court.

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