A full year after bidding farewell to professional tennis, Rafael Nadal returned to familiar territory. The 22-time Major winner hit the court at this Academy in Mallorca alongside rising WTA star, Alexandra Eala.
Rafa picked up his famous Babolat racket and embraced a gentle step back into the sport that shaped his life. His comeback session carried an emotional weight, picking the perfect hitting partner .
Eala is one of the brightest young talents to emerge from Rafa Nadal Academy, traveling to Mallorca in 2018 and graduating in 2023, with constant returns to her beloved tennis complex.
Alexandra arrived in Mallorca as a gifted junior and developed into a poised, disciplined professional. Now, she shared the court again with her mentor - this time not as a student but as a rising WTA player trading shots with the walking legend.
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Rafa stayed away from the court for a year. He watched juniors at his Academy and even gave advices to Alexander Zverev during the German's visit. Now, the King of clay returned and presented his trademark smile, enjoying every hit and promising to improve.
His return after a year of recovery and reflection clearly meant something profound. His playful promise that he will be stronger next time hinted at the competitive spark that has never left him.
For fans, the scene offered a beautiful snapshot of Nadal's legacy in action. The retired champion returned to the place where he now gives to the sport, sharing the court with a young player shaped by his tennis philosophy and example.
Rafa may no longer dream about competitive tennis. However, moments like this prove he is still very much part of our sport. And, who knows, maybe we will see him in action against Roger Federer in the upcoming year.
