Rafael Nadal pays tribute to beloved member of his tennis academy after demise

Rafael Nadal is mourning the loss of one of his team members at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca.

The Spaniard’s academy recently revealed the demise of their monitor and receptionist, Dan. A memorial service was held in his honor on Friday, March 24. Rafael Nadal, along with all the involved team members as well as students of the academy, paid tribute to the beloved employee on the institute grounds.

“We are heartbroken. Dan, even though you are no longer with us physically, we know you are taking care of us as you have always have done all over the years. The RNA family will never forget your smile and kindness. As you would have wanted us to say… May The Force Be With You,” the social media page said, announcing his demise.

The tennis legend has always maintained a strong bond with all the employees and students of his institute. The academy’s kindness in holding the remembrance event was appreciated by the relatives of the departed staff member.

“On behalf of my parents, my brother-in-law and the whole family we wanted to say thank you for this great gesture you have done for my brother Dan. A very big hug @rafanadalacademy and May the Force be With You,” the departed receptionist’s brother wrote.

Fernando Verdasco and many of the Spaniard's students poured in their wishes after the announcement of Dan’s demise.

Wishes pour in for the departed staff member

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Rafael Nadal begins preparations for tour return on clay

The Spaniard is a 11-time Monte Carlo Masters champion

Rafael Nadal, meanwhile, is gearing up to make his comeback on tour. The 22-time Grand Slam champion was last seen competing at the 2023 Australian Open, where he faced an early exit in the second round of the event.

The 36-year-old later revealed he would be taking a few weeks off the tour to tend to a hip injury, which restricted his movements during the Australian Open.

Recently, the 'King of Clay' has been seen hitting the clay courts at his academy in Mallorca, preparing for his return. Numerous videos of the tennis legend’s vigorous practice sessions have surfaced on social media.

It was also announced that the 11-time Monte Carlo Masters champion was the first player to register himself at the 2023 event. Thus, one can expect to see him in action between April 8-16.

The former World No. 1 will look to make a deep run at the tournament in hopes of restoring his top 10 ranking, which he held for 912 consecutive weeks before dropping out earlier this week.