The long list of admirers of the Spanish great Rafael Nadal is never-ending. Recently, his countryman Joan Mir, who won the 2020 MotoGP World Championship, added himself to the list. But while the rest talk about Nadal’s incredible 13 title win at the 2020 French Open, Mir talked about his humility.

It is a known fact that the 20 time Grand Slam winner is respected even by his worst opponents. Nadal, considering the position he has in tennis, has always lived up to the expectations. And even though he is criticized for fewer wins outside clay, World No. 2 puts all-in in every match. Along with that, his all-time approachable character makes him more likable than others.

“Rafael Nadal has a very good image”: Joan Mir

Nadal is one of the most important people in Spain. He has single-handedly shouldered tennis growth in the country for the last two decades. In honor of his achievements and his aspirational figure, the city of Mallorca will build a large mule of the Spanish player.

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“I admire Nadal, because he is my countryman, but also because of the humility that he expresses and reaches people about him. I think he has done very well and has a very good image,” said Joan Mir.

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The Spanish Grand Pix motorcycle racer went on to add, “I like him a lot.”

Additional to his contribution through his Foundation, Nadal also is a key player in maintaining the class in tennis. It is the balance between his down-to-earth attitude off-the-court and his solid competing attitude on-the-court that makes him the role model for Mir.

Mir wants to learn from Nadal and other great athletes

After winning at the Roland-Garros, the 34-year-old lost two consecutive semi-finals in Paris and London. However, his motivation to win his maiden title at both the venues has not lessened. Hence, Nadal called off  ‘difficult surfaces’ excuses immediately.

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Therefore, it can be fairly assumed why Joan Mir aims to follow in the footsteps of his compatriot.  The 2020 AS Sports Award winner continued, “I pay attention to the high-level athletes because they are people who have more experience than me, and I want to learn from them.”

(Quotes have been translated using Google Translate)

The Spanish will initiate his 2021 season at the Australian Open. However, the dates of the event remain unknown.

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