Iga Swiatek seeks to inspire next generation at Rafa Nadal Academy

<p>2023 graduates from the Rafa Nadal Academy were lucky to hear from French Open champions Iga Swiatek and Rafael Nadal.</p>

<p>Wednesday saw the class of 2023 graduate from Rafael Nadal's incredible facility that he heads up in his home town of Mallorca in Spain. Speaking to the graduates, Swiatek encouraged them to be tenacious on court and in life.</p>

<p>"For the last few weeks, I've been looking at one quote at Roland Garros in Paris," said the French Open champion.</p>

<p>"On Court Philippe-Chatrier it's written, 'The victory belongs to the most tenacious'."</p>

<p>"I often have the feeling that sometimes when I'm playing or when I'm doing things off court, that I should do them better or I should seek perfection. But this shouldn't be the sense. We should all focus on the process and giving 100 percent, no matter what you can give, because every day is different."</p>

<p>Swiatek went on to reveal how Nadal inspired her as a young player. But it was not the glory that attracted her... it was the grind. Even - or perhaps especially - in the matches where he was not in form, Nadal would always give his all.</p>

<p>"These are the matches that inspired me," she added.</p>

<p>"So I hope you will be tenacious."</p>

<p>When Nadal took his place at the lectern, he hoped Swiatek would continue to inspire the next generation through her performances.</p>

<p>"Honestly, for us it's a huge privilege to have you here today," said the 22-time grand slam winner, who recently had arthroscopic surgery on his hip.</p>

<p>"I know that everybody here at the Academy, the students especially, appreciate your efforts, that after winning Roland Garros you are here inspiring all the kids."</p>

<p>The article <a href="https://www.planetsport.com/tennis/news/iga-swiatek-seeks-inspire-next-generation-rafa-nadal-academy">Iga Swiatek seeks to inspire next generation at Rafa Nadal Academy </a> appeared first on Planetsport.com.</p>