Rafael Nadal: 'Convinced that Spain will get ahead in the most difficult moments'

2020 was one of the most special years in the history of tennis with many canceled and postponed tournaments and a season practically played in the middle. Rafael Nadal did not play many tournaments, he also decided to skip the American season with the US Open due to the Coronavirus and only shone with one title (but what a title!). In fact, the Majorcan champion won his 13th title at Roland Garros in Paris, an even more significant title because it allowed him to join Roger Federer at 20 Grand Slam titles in his career. This, but not just for a tennis player who continues to receive praise and awards. The 34-year-old left-handed man from Manacor will today receive the "Grand Crown of the Order of Dos de Mayo" from the president of the Community of Madrid Isabel Diaz Ayuso. The champion was awarded for being an example, for his vision of sport and life in general. Rafael Nadal expressed his gratitude at being awarded the 'Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Sporting Merit' on Thursday. The Spaniard also touched upon the victims of the pandemic and gave a hopeful note for the future of Spain.

Nadal on pandemic-stricken 2020

"I want to remember first of all the victims of this terrible pandemic that we are experiencing and all their families," Rafael Nadal said. "I think it affects all of us, in one way or another, but especially those who have lost a loved one. Thanks to all the health personnel, especially in Madrid, a community that was badly hit in the first wave. And thanks also to the State security forces and bodies. I am convinced that Spain will do what it always knew how to do, to get ahead in the toughest and most difficult circumstances. This time it will not be an exception." The 34-year-old sounded grateful and humble as always while receiving the much-deserved award, and acknowledged the Community of Madrid for its contribution towards Spanish sport. "Thank you for this recognition, it is an honor," Rafael Nadal went on. "I want to thank and share this distinction with the citizens of the Madrid Community, a place that I feel very close to and where I receive a special affection and I have enjoyed unforgettable moments both professionally and personally, and that always supports all sport, in a golden age. We all owe a lot to this Community. We all owe a lot because it has always been with us. I hope that what we are experiencing now will be remembered and we will soon be able to share and enjoy the things that make us happy in the way we were used to," he added. "Let this end as soon as possible. You have made this day unforgettable for me."

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/37Dlxrj