Rafael Nadal is currently 34, but even if he has been battling with injuries forever, he shows no will to retire. The Spanish sensation has just signed a 5 years’ deal with Kia Motors in a partnership that started 16 years ago (2004) before Rafa became the official brand ambassador in 2006.

After signing with Kia, Rafa commented:

“Fans have been without tennis for months now, particularly mine since besides my practice routines at the Rafa Nadal academy I haven’t been active, so I really enjoyed putting on a special event for them.

Kia has been by my side since I was 17 years old and has played a big part in my journey as a professional tennis player and as a person. I’m excited to see what the next five years bring both on and off the court.”

Of course, also the South Korean automaker was elated for renewing the partnership.

Kia Motors President and CEO, Ho Sung Song, commented:

“Our 16-year partnership with Rafa has inspired millions of people to play tennis, so at a time when he needs his fans the most, we wanted to put them at the heart of his training and encourage his successful return to competition. We are excited about extending our partnership for the next five years and look forward to inspiring each other to continually move forward.”

Nadal, the US Open and the Roland Garros

Rafa is still training in Mallorca this summer. The world no.2 is practicing on clay courts as he seems more and more adverse about competing at the upcoming US Open. With the change of the ranking system that is now using a 22-months framework, Nadal will not lose any point if he doesn’t defend his title at the US Open. Therefore, he is widely expected to compete only on clay from September with the Roland Garros being his top target.

 

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Rafael Nadal in 2020

Ranked world no.2, Nadal played his last match on the 29th of February when he beat Taylor Fritz 6-3 6-2 in the final in Acapulco to win his 85th career title.

This year Nadal has a 13-3 win-loss record. Rafael has won 1 title in Acapulco.