Today I'm going to set the record straight. If you read my first post you'll remember I mentioned an obsession with Rafael Nadal, the current #1 ranked professional tennis player in the world. I'm embarrassed to admit that "obsession" is not too strong a word. My friends and family think it's all because of his looks. Let's face it, the guy is gorgeous from his dimples, chiseled cheek bones, and perpetually tanned face to his bulging biceps and rock-hard abs. The man is a photographer's dream.
But, that's not what initially drew me to become one of his most loyal fans. I was watching the final of the French Open, 2012--I mean really watching. I never took my eyes off the match until the last point was scored. I'd never noticed any tennis match played with such intensity, such power. When Rafa Nadal hits a ball, it rockets across the net. Not only is the ball coming like a speeding bullet but he has a way of putting a spin on it that confounds his opponent as it lands precisely inside the line. Amazing!
You'd think a guy like that with his incredible talent and breathtaking good looks would be arrogant, conceited, just plan full of himself. Not true! From everything I've read and seen (and believe me, I've read just about all there is to read about him) he is sincerely a humble, kind, appreciative guy. When he goes to the net at the end of a match, he's always contrite, as if he's saying "You really gave me a challenge today. It's just a fluke I won." There's no gloating, no strutting, no "I beat you, sucker". Just kindness, respect, and humbleness.
Rafa Nadal is not only a great sportsman, but he's a devoted son, brother, and boyfriend. He always thanks his family, friends, and team who he credits with much of his success. He's loyal to them all having the same coach (his Uncle Toni), physio, communications director, agent, doctor, and hitting partner since the beginning. And, he's dated the same girl for nine years. A guy like Rafa could easily have become an international playboy, but no...he's been with his true love his whole adult life.
So, to my close friends who think I only love Rafa for his looks, I say review the evidence. There's more to Rafael Nadal than just a pretty face.
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