Page 86 - Ocean Blue World 26th Edition
P. 86
SPORTS & TOYS
KING OF CLAY
On the courts since the age of three, Spaniard Rafael Nadal, 34. has become one of tennis’s greatest legends. Currently ranked Number Two in the world by the Association of Tennis Professionals, Nadal has been
a force to be reckoned with since turning pro at age 15 and has earned more than $123 million.
Nadal, who plays left-handed but is ambidextrous, began his tennis career as a toddler under the tutelage of his former pro tennis player uncle Toni, who encouraged the young Nadal to make use of his left hand to build strength.
With 86 titles and 20 Grand Slams under his belt, 60 of those wins being played on clay, hence his “King of Clay” nickname, Nadal proves that he has the talent and the tenacity to remain a dominant force in his sport. And he is a role model for youth athletes across the globe, after establishing Nadal tennis centers in India, Spain, Mexico, Greece, Australia and Kuwait to help his legacy continue even after his reign is over.
“The secret of success is probably the passion and the love for what you are doing”
Photos Courtesy Of: Julian Finney/Getty Images 86 | www.OceanBlueWorld.com
