“What I’d like to be remembered for more is as a good person from a small village in Mallorca,” Rafael Nadal said while bidding farewell to the tennis world. Although the ATP legend marked an end to his professional career, his undying legacy never ceases to draw gestures of admiration from fans. Guess what? One such incident recently came to light from a 25-year-old NBA star.
Luka Dončić recently made headlines by paying a heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal. The 25-year-old gifted his jersey to the Rafael Nadal Academy as a gesture of admiration for the legend’s astonishing career in tennis.
A fan account on X, going with the name of “The Tennis Letter” shared the post on X, with a caption that said, “Luka Doncic, who was traded from Dallas to L.A. a couple of days ago, gifted the Rafa Nadal Academy a signed Mavericks jersey.”
Luka Doncic, who was traded from Dallas to L.A. a couple of days ago, gifted the Rafa Nadal Academy a signed Mavericks jersey.
Game recognizes game.
(via @rnadalacademy) pic.twitter.com/6TCUgNvX13
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) February 5, 2025
This came after Rafael Nadal’s academy made a fun request to Luka Doncic after his surprising move from the Dallas Mavericks to the LA Lakers. They asked him to send a new Lakers jersey to replace the signed Dallas Mavericks one they had in their museum. The Rafa Nadal Academy shared a picture of Doncic’s No. 77 Mavericks jersey on X. The jersey had a message written by Doncic. “For the Academy of Rafa Nadal,” the post said.
Along with the photo, the academy posted a playful message. “Dear @luka7doncic, Yesterday we received the shirt that you dedicated to us with so much love at the Rafa Nadal Museum last week in Dallas. Thank you very much! @LosLakers, would you consider it feasible to help us get a new one?” they wrote.
Querido @luka7doncic,
Ayer recibimos en el Rafa Nadal Museum la camiseta que con tanto cariño nos dedicaste la semana pasada en Dallas. ¡Muchas gracias! @LosLakers, ¿veríais factible ayudarnos a conseguir una nueva? pic.twitter.com/81PMYrNr1c
— Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar (@rnadalacademy) February 4, 2025
Doncic’s trade to the Lakers caught the attention of many in the tennis world. One of them was Nick Kyrgios, a big basketball fan. The former World No. 13 has always shown his love for the game, often wearing basketball jerseys on the tennis court. Though he supports the Boston Celtics, Kyrgios has also admired the Dallas Mavericks.
As the greats recognize the legendary tennis player and his achievements, accolades keep coming for the 22x Grand Slam champion. Here’s another purple feather to his cap.
Rafael Nadal receives a vote of honor at the Mundo Deportivo Grand Gala
Rafael Nadal was the standout star at the 77th Mundo Deportivo Grand Gala. The tennis icon, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles, was honored with the Extraordinary Trophy. It recognized his remarkable career and contributions to sports.
During his speech, Nadal expressed appreciation for Mundo Deportivo by thanking them for their support over the years. Having retired at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, he bid farewell to professional tennis after 23 years. Now, the Spaniard cherishes a new chapter of life as he spends more time with his family. Yes, also exploring various opportunities.
Histórico
La increíble ovación en la #GalaMD al mejor deportista español de todos los tiempos: Don @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/vfSKd4q8nX
— Mundo Deportivo (@mundodeportivo) February 4, 2025
The audience gave him a rousing ovation, showing their deep admiration for the Spanish legend. With no training schedules or tournaments to worry about, Nadal can finally enjoy his favorite pastimes. He has been traveling frequently and fans saw him play golf. His final season in 2022 saw him finish as World No. 2, right behind Carlos Alcaraz.
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