Emma Raducanu has expressed admiration for Rafael Nadal while preparing for the Madrid Open, sporting a t-shirt from the Rafa Nadal Shop during a recent practice session at Manzanares Park.
Although Nadal isn’t competing this year following his retirement in 2024, his legacy remains strong—especially in Madrid, where he won five titles. Raducanu, a self-proclaimed fan of the 22-time Grand Slam champion, continues to pay tribute. She previously honored him on social media following his Davis Cup farewell last year and again recently by wearing his branded merchandise.
The tournament’s official Instagram account shared a video of Raducanu training, captioned “Hola, @emmaraducanu,” along with a waving emoji. The 22-year-old, unseeded this year, has received a direct entry into the main draw.
This marks Raducanu’s return to competition since reaching the quarterfinals at the Miami Open, where she lost to Jessica Pegula. Her previous Madrid campaign ended early after a second-round defeat to Maria Lourdes Carle.
With local support likely high thanks to her connection with Nadal, Raducanu hopes to build momentum heading into the clay season.
