Behind the astronomical success of Rafael Nadal there lies a team that has supported the Spaniard through his entire career. In fact, Nadal has always expressed his gratitude towards his team and the influence its members have had on his career.

Recently, in a commercial for the Telefónica campaign, Nadal talked about the importance of each of his team members and the pivotal role they have played in his success.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion shed light on his relationship with Toni Nadal, Carlos Moya, Carlos Costa, Francis Roig, Rafa Mayma, Benito Perez Barbadillo, and the doctor Angel Ruiz Cotorro.

Rafael Nadal talks about his coach, Francis Roig

It was his uncle, Toni Nadal, who introduced Rafael to the sport at age 3 and recognized his exceptional talent. But apart from Toni, Francis Roig has also played an instrumental part in Nadal’s journey since 2005 when he won his maiden Grand Slam title at Roland Garros.

Speaking of his coach Roig, Nadal mentioned the part he played in improving his level of tennis. Particularly, Nadal spoke about Roig’s passion on the court, which has helped him during his career.

“I started with Francis in 2005, practically my entire career, from that moment until today. I think he is a person who knows how to recover my tennis and he is passionate about working on the court. I think that, when it comes to talking about him, he is a very good coach who has helped me,” said Nadal.

(Quotes have been translated via Google)

Nadal revealed it’s because of a solid team he has been able to endure many hardships over his years. Having suffered multiple injuries since the inception of his career, Nadal lauded the efforts of his doctor and his physiotherapist for their help in his most difficult moments.

Nadal’s tribute to his team shows that despite tennis being an individual game, the team behind the curtain plays an equally important role in determining a player’s success.