It is a feeling of pride for any person to represent the nation at the international level. Winning laurels and awards for the country is an even greater feeling. Rafael Nadal has been serving his country for a long time. Starting off with his journey in the early 2000s, he has been delivering his best for more than a decade. Needless to say, his country and his countrymen are honored to have him.

Rafael Nadal kept his victory chariot running by winning the French Open 2020. His 13th title on the surface came by defeating Novak Djokovic in straight sets. As a token of appreciation and gratitude, the Spanish Government has decided to confer Nadal with the Royal Order of Sports Merit.

“The decision was made today in the Council of Ministers to grant the Deportivo Order of Merit to our player Rafa Nadal,” the statement read.

Highlighting his overall contribution to sports and being an iconic inspiration for the country’s youth, the Government is set to confer Rafa with the honor.

“There is little to mention about the resume of this extraordinary person on and off the slopes. We are honored to convey this distinction to him not only for the undoubted sporting merits of one of the best sports in history at an international level but it is also a pleasure to do so in a person who brings together the values ​​of youth referents, everything that allows us to be better.

“The government makes this highly deserved sports recognition for one of our national pride such as Rafa Nadal.”

(Quotes translated from Spanish using Google Translate)

Rafael Nadal and the records

Rafael Nadal claimed his 20th Grand Slam in Paris last Sunday. With his win over Djokovic, the Spaniard became the second person to touch the 20 Slam mark in singles after Roger Federer. His straight-set victory handed him a bunch of records along with the 20th Major.

Nadal was on his 12th Roland Garros when he came into the French Open 2020. He added one more to his tally, extending his record and taking the figures to 13.

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The victory in the final meant a century of wins for Nadal at Roland Garros. He is the only player to achieve this feat, and he touched the mark, losing only two matches. Beginning his journey in 2005, he became the first tennis professional to win it again after 15 years.