Ahead of his semi-final clash with Grigor Dimitrov, Rafael Nadal has received a boost away from the court with the signing of a partnership between Tennis Australian and his tennis academy in Mallorca.
The deal ensures that Australian players and their coaching teams will be allowed to train at the facility throughout their European swing of the tour. The Rafael Nadal Academy was formally opened in 2016 with a ceremony featuring 17-time grand slam champion Roger Federer. The facility has 26 tennis counts of different surfaces (both indoor and outdoor), two swimming pools, one fitness centre and one mini football pitch.
Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley has hailed the new deal. In a statement, Tiley said the deal was struck to align the values of both Tennis Australia and Rafael Nadal.
“Rafa epitomises our aspirations,” he said.
“He is a hard-worker with a massive competitive drive and a love for the sport. He has long held a close affinity with Australian tennis and the Australian Open, and this formalises that affinity.
“In every aspect of our sport we are constantly looking for world’s best practice, and we believe Rafa’s Academy is just that. This partnership gives our athletes access to some of the best facilities and coaches in the world at a location convenient to them during their travels to Europe.”
Toni Nadal, who is the director of the academy, explains the venue was built around his nephews ‘values and experiences.’ Speaking about the new partnership, Toni stressed that players would benefit from the experience of those who works there. The Academy currently has 19 technical staff according to their website, which is headed by technical director Carlos Costa.
“We are new as a global sports facility, since it was built only last year. But at the same time we have a lot of experience, and a team with experience in the field of competition and education.” Said Toni Nadal.
“Our model is based on Rafa’s values and the experience gained throughout the years with his career and the careers of our team members. I am sure that we will be able to give plenty of good advice besides the excellent facilities we have in Spain.”
The financial side of the deal has not been revealed by Tennis Australia. A CNN report highlighted that aspiring tennis pros have to pay an annual fee of up to $62,000 (€56,000) to play at the Rafael Nadal Academy. This price includes tennis training (€26,500), accommodation and food (€19,000) and enrolment at an American International School (€10,500).
