Holger Rune reveals insights into the ‘intensity’ of Rafael Nadal in his last training with him

Rafael Nadal has had a reputation of being aggressive and demanding during practice sessions in his career.


Holger Rune reveals insights into the ‘intensity’ of Rafael Nadal in his last training with him

Rafael Nadal and Holger Rune (via Imago)

22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal has achieved many great milestones in tennis. The left-hander has won over 90 career titles and two Olympic gold medals.

One key reason behind Nadal’s success has been his dedication to intense training. The former World No. 1 is known for his high-intensity practice sessions, which have built his reputation as a serious and focused player. Holger Rune recently shared insights into his latest practice session with the Spaniard.

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Do I get inspiration from other players or do I just focus on myself? A bit of both. I think inspiration is important, but I always try to be a beast, whether it’s in training, in preparation or in a match, I always want to push myself. You get inspiration from players like Djokovic or Rafa Nadal. I remember training with Rafa in Riyadh and it’s surprising: this guy is almost retired and he trains with such intensity that you think: ‘You shouldn’t retire’. He’s had an incredible career and he’s achieved so much, it’s not for nothing that Rafa and Novak both give their all in every training session.

Holger Rune in the post-match press conference in Paris Masters

Rune and Nadal trained together this year at Roland Garros. Unfortunately, Nadal only played one match in Paris this year, a rare outcome compared to his usual success at the French Open.

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Nadal is set to step away from tennis after representing Spain in this year’s Davis Cup. He was recently seen at the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia, where he reportedly earned $1.5 million for participating.

Rafael Nadal receives heartbreaking news before retirement

Rafael Nadal has received messages of support after severe flooding damaged his tennis academy in Mallorca. The flooding has impacted both the facilities and the local community, highlighting the serious effects of the recent storm.

Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal (Image via Imago)

At 38, Nadal is currently preparing for his final match, as he plans to represent Spain one last time at the upcoming Davis Cup Finals. He founded the Rafa Nadal Tennis Academy in October 2016 in his hometown of Manacor, Mallorca, and the academy has since trained many rising stars, including Casper Ruud.

The storm struck Mallorca early on Monday (October 28), leading to widespread road closures and emergency rescues in the region. The damage has affected several parts of the area, including Nadal’s well-known academy.

The academy shared on social media that everyone is safe, but photos reveal the scale of the damage. One picture shows an indoor facility severely flooded, and several outdoor courts were also left underwater.