Rafa Nadal, the Spanish tennis great who has claimed 22 Grand Slam singles titles, began a new chapter this week with the Saudi Tennis Federation (STF). The federation positions Nadal as an ambassador to help lift the sport’s profile in the kingdom and to spark a lasting commitment to tennis development among young people.
STF officials said the plan is to establish a yearly season designed to promote and support the growth of tennis for both girls and boys in Saudi Arabia. The aim is to nurture interest in tennis among the nation’s youth and to create pathways that turn raw talent into confident competitors on the global stage.
Beyond broad outreach, the STF outlined tangible steps, including the creation of a Rafa Nadal Academy in the region. The academy is envisioned as a hub where aspiring players can access high-quality coaching, structured training programs, and the resources needed to refine technique and build competitive resilience.
Speaking through STF communications, Nadal expressed his enthusiasm for the project. He emphasized that his involvement goes beyond personal competition. He is excited by the broader opportunity to contribute to the sport’s growth worldwide and to help cultivate a future generation of players in Saudi Arabia. The sentiment resonates with the federation’s messaging about unlocking potential within the country and inspiring young athletes to pursue sport with dedication.
In Nadal’s own words, the local youth are showing a genuine passion for sports. He suggested that even simple acts, like providing access to a racquet or encouraging physical fitness, can make a meaningful difference in shaping healthier, more active lives for young people.
Current STF data indicate notable growth in tennis infrastructure across Saudi Arabia. The country now hosts 177 tennis clubs, marking a significant expansion since 2019. In recent years, the registered player base has risen by nearly half, with 46 percent more players now counted at around 2,300. The number of players under 14 has doubled in four years, increasing from roughly 500 to 1,000. These figures underscore a broad-based acceleration in participation and club development that aligns with the federation’s long-term strategy.
STF president Arij Almutabagani highlighted Nadal as a living embodiment of the values the federation seeks to instill. He described Nadal as a champion who shines both on and off the court, offering a compelling model for the next generation. The president noted that Nadal’s daily work ethic, his careful preparation for every shot, and his relentless pursuit of every point are powerful lessons for young players aiming to grow as athletes and as people. The federation hopes these attributes will help cultivate a new cohort of players who excel in competition and embody positive character traits in sport and life.