Rafael Nadal returns to the court (Photo by @RafaelNadal on X)
New Delhi: Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has returned to the tennis court in a special way, but not in the usual atmosphere. The Spanish legend took to the temporary court set up inside Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, creating a unique intersection between tennis and football.
Nadal teamed up with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in an entertaining session against world number one Jannik Sinner and midfielder Jude Bellingham. “It was very special to enjoy this unique court at the Bernabéu,” Nadal said afterwards.He watches:
Football meets tennis at the Bernabéu
The exhibition was part of promotions around the Madrid Open, where players were allowed to practice on the famous court for a limited time. Several stars, including Iga Swiatek, also attended.
The event blended two sporting worlds, bringing together Real Madrid’s best tennis players and footballers in a rare and entertaining atmosphere.
The big moment for rising star Godard
Away from the exhibition, young Spanish player Rafael Godard caught the eye at the Madrid Open. After winning his first match in a hard-fought three-set battle, he celebrated by imitating Bellingham’s famous goal celebration and even wrote “Hey Jude” on the TV camera. The gesture caught the attention of Bellingham, who later met him and posed for photos.
Godard was thrilled by the interaction, saying: “I spoke to him after the match and asked him if he liked it.” He added: “I didn’t know he would be here, it means a lot to me. He is a great person. I am very grateful that he came. He is an example for me, he is my favorite football player.”The 19-year-old’s win was historic, making him the third Spaniard after Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to win a match at the Madrid Open before turning 20. Commenting on his performance, he said: “I was really looking forward to competing here, but I knew I had to play a strong match from start to finish.”
