Rafael Nadal's foundation was created 11 years ago with the goal of contributing to a better world: Wife Maria Francisca

Rafael Nadal and his wife María Francisca Perelló helm the Rafa Nadal Foundation, which helps promote sports among other responsibilities.

In an interview with Elle, María Francisca spoke about how the foundation came about and how it was the brainchild of Rafael Nadal and his mother Ana María.

"It was born 11 years ago, the result of the desire of Rafael and Ana María, his mother, to contribute to a better world. They considered themselves lucky and wanted to do their bit and give back to society the love and support received in those years."

The Spaniard's tennis academy in Mallorca recently made headlines after winning big at the Spanish Sports Awards. The Rafa Nadal Academy was honored with the Joaquin Blume Trophy for its work in promoting the sport of tennis worldwide.

Rafael Nadal is currently sidelined with a rib stress fracture that he sustained in Indian Wells during his semi-final match against compatriot Carlos Alcaraz. Earlier this month, he was spotted at the East Mallorca Cup, showing his support for a youth football competition. He posed for pictures with a group of boys participating in the tournament as well.

The East Mallorca Cup is a football tournament held yearly in Mallorca, with kids divided into 90 teams. The tournament was held very close to the Rafa Nadal Academy.

---

Notable graduates from Rafa Nadal Academy

While the Rafa Nadal Academy has been recruiting and training players for a relatively short period of time (since 2016), the Academy has a few notable alumni. Former World No. 52 Jaume Munar is from the academy, as is Finnish player Emil Ruusuvuori. World No. 7 Casper Ruud has also spent a significant amount of time training at the academy and has credited them as being part of his success.

---

The Spaniard's former coach, Toni Nadal, shifted to a full-time position at the Rafa Nadal Academy to hone young talent. The elder Nadal has taken up coaching Felix-Auger Aliassime since 2021 and has proven pivotal in Auger Aliassime's rise to the top-10 and winning his first title in Rotterdam.

Rafael Nadal is expected to return to action at the Madrid Masters. He will likely participate in the Italian Open as well before shifting his focus to Roland Garros later in May.

---

Also Check Out :-Madrid Open 2022 Results