Rafael Nadal is all set to face off against fellow Spanish legend David Ferrer today in an exhibition match. The match will formally inaugurate the ambitious Rafael Nadal Academy in Kuwait.
The academy seeks to improve grassroots tennis in the country and the middle east. In fact, Rafael Nadal Academy has helped in improving the standards of tennis in his hometown of Manacor. Following that, the academy expanded to Mexico and Greece.
Rafa addressed the media in Kuwait with his good friend David Ferrer. Let’s see what the Spanish star had to say.
What Did Rafael Nadal Say?
Rafa was thankful to David Ferrer for supporting his effort. He went on to describe the importance attached to the tennis centre –
“Thank you, everyone, for being here. Thanks especially to David for supporting this academy here in Kuwait. We are happy to be here. For me personally, it is a big satisfaction to have this amazing tennis centre.”
Rafael was thankful that the academy could repeat the wonders that it did in Mallorca. In fact, he believed that the dedicated team of workers is to be thanked for making it happen.
“For us, it’s amazing to have this great team of people. Hopefully, we will give the best service possible for the adults but especially for the young people. Young people are the future and we are here to create something special to promote tennis in Kuwait. Not only in Kuwait, all around the Middle east. I am sure that this time it will be a turning point.”
Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer will be clashing in Kuwait in front of a packed stadium with a 1500 capacity.
Overall, the effort is being seen as a pathbreaking move to vastly increase the footprint of tennis. Of course, Rafael Nadal is at the forefront of it.
Match In Africa: When is Rafael Nadal vs Roger Federer exhibition, and how can you watch it live?
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have played each other 40 times and their rivalry will go down as one of the best in sport’s history. Now, the two will meet in what Federer described as “a very, very special” match.
So, here s everything you need to know about the Match In Africa event.
When is Match in Africa, and when are Federer and Nadal playing?
The match takes place on Friday 7 February, and looks like it’s going to provide a tremendous night of entertainment for fans.
As per the events official website, the running order looks like this:
19:30 – Curtain Raiser Pro-Celebrity Doubles Match Roger Federer/Bill Gates vs. Rafael Nadal/Trevor Noah
20:00 – ‘Entertainment’
20:30 – Start of Singles Match Roger Federer vs. Rafael Nadal
(All times local)
Why are Federer and Nadal playing in South Africa?
It is taking place to support the Roger Federer Foundation to raise funds for children’s education in Africa. South Africa is a special host for Federer, given his mother hails from there.
Where in South Africa will Federer and Nadal play?
Federer and Nadal will play at the Cape Town Stadium on Friday 7th February, 2020. The venue has a seating capacity of 50,000 people and there is a solid chance that organisers will smash the record for most spectators who have watched a singles tennis match.
Will there be any other matches in South Africa?
Fans will also be treated to a once in a lifetime doubles match. Federer will team one of the richest people in the world world, Bill Gates, to take on Nadal and famous South African comedian, Trevor Noah.
What have Federer and Nadal said about their match in South Africa?
Federer was adamant that he had to play in South Africa, which happens to be the birthplace of his mother. “It’s not possible that I’m on the tour for 20 years, I’ve become the player that I’ve been and I’ve never played in South Africa. It’s just not okay, I couldn’t live myself if that happened,” said the 20-time Grand Slam champion.
Meanwhile, his opponent said: “Roger and I have shared so many magical moments on and off the court. Travelling with him to Cape Town and playing for the benefit of children is something I am very excited about.”
Can I watch Match In Africa on TV?
Yes, and it’s completely free. Tennis TV are offering non-subscribers in all countries a one off special opportunity to watch their coverage for free by simply registering an account, which you can do.
