Nadal: ‘Come To Mallorca & Play Safe’

Rafael Nadal is ready to welcome tennis fans to get back on court safely and responsibly after an extended period of COVID-19 lockdown. Not only is the five-time year-end World No. 1 back on court practising at the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar, Nadal said in a video released on Thursday that his academy wants local and international players to visit in the coming months.

Arancha Gonzalez, Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, confirmed that the mandatory 14-day quarantine for people arriving from overseas to Spain is set to end on 1 July. As the 80 full-time academy students who were confined on site during the country’s State of Emergency have started practising again, Nadal encouraged tennis players worldwide to explore his hometown while working on their games.

“Mallorca is a very special island. To me, it is one of the most incredible places in the world,” Nadal said. “I would like to invite you all to discover this beautiful island and play sport safely. We have a great team who will dedicate their time to looking after your well-being.”

The Spanish government began easing restrictions on movement this week as part of a four-phase plan. The academy is implementing new protocols during this period to ensure that guests and staff can safely enjoy all of their tennis offerings.

In 2018 November, the Consell of Mallorca named Nadal as an honorary citizen for the Balearic Islands for his on-court success and humanitarian efforts.

The return of Rafa! ? @RafaelNadal | (via/@rnadalacademy) pic.twitter.com/2krvk8lssP

— ATP Tour (@atptour) May 25, 2020