Rafael Nadal's cousin Joan trains with Felix Auger-Aliassime at Spaniard's academy

While Rafael Nadal is often referred to by fans as the greatest of all time, several members of the Mallorcan's family also have proven credentials in the international sporting scene.

Miguel Angel Nadal, the paternal uncle of the 22-time Grand Slam champion, played football for the Spanish national side as a defender and midfielder. Miguel's brother Toni remains one of the most successful tennis coaches ever.

Unsurprisingly, the next generation of sporting talent in the family is also coming to the fore with the likes of Joan Nadal Vives eager to take the next big step by honing his skills at the Rafa Nadal Academy.

Joan was spotted in a practice session with Felix Auger-Aliassime, who is currently under the tutelage of Toni Nadal.

"Joan Nadal, Rafa’s cousin, bringing an extra intensity during a practice with @felixtennis! Amazing champ," a social media post read.

Auger-Aliassime returned to train at the Rafa Nadal Academy after a disappointing run at the Australian Open where he went down to Jiri Lehecka in the fourth round. The Canadian lost to Taylor Fritz after beating Rafael Nadal in the year-end ATP Finals late last season.

The World No. 6's young practice partner, meanwhile, has been playing on the ITF circuit since January 2021 and was also seen practicing with Rafael Nadal last year.

Joan, who is a fan of Nick Kyrgios, is yet to make it to the main draw but has received wildcards and is certain to benefit from his practice session with one of the brightest talents in the world of tennis.

---

When Toni Nadal decided to remain neutral even as Rafael Nadal and Felix-Auger Alaissime faced off at Roland Garros

Toni Nadal's current and former wards faced off in Roland Garros

While it is perfectly normal for professional coaches to switch camps in the tennis world, it isn't often that a mentor who is also a close relative of a player is faced with the task of overseeing the defeat of his former ward.

It came as no surprise then that the tennis fraternity was fascinated by the prospect of a clash between Toni Nadal's current protege, Felix Auger-Aliassime, who was up against Rafael Nadal in the Round of 16 at the 2022 French Open.

The 36-year-old, who was chasing a record 22nd Grand Slam title, had been coached by his uncle for pretty much his entire career until the two parted ways in 2017.

Putting an end to all speculation, Toni Nadal declared ahead of the big match that he would remain neutral before going on to explain that Felix Auger-Aliassime was aware of his stance regarding matches against Rafael Nadal.

"I wouldn't say anything to him to win over my nephew. I'm not going to tell you if my nephew has this or that. Above all, I am Rafael's uncle, I have been with Rafael for many years, I work for Rafael at the academy. And even if he didn't work for Rafael, he is my nephew. I'm not going to tell the other how he has to beat him," said Toni Nadal.

"Ethically, I wouldn't tell my nephew what he has to do to win either. And, it is not necessary either, he has his coach. It is an unusual situation. Whoever wins will do well for me," he added.

Rafael Nadal went on to beat Auger-Aliassime 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 en route to a 14th French Open title.