World No.3 Rafael Nadal embodies the qualities of perseverance, a never-say-die attitude, and most important, humility, which make him the right example for aspiring tennis players to follow. Over his illustrious career, Nadal has never thrown a racquet, no matter how frustrating the situation has been.

However, the person who has played the most influential role in instilling the right values in Nadal has been his uncle and long-time coach, Toni Nadal. Interestingly, in an interview, Toni Nadal spoke about the reason his nephew has never smashed a racquet.

Toni Nadal on why Rafael Nadal never threw a racquet

Having introduced tennis to his nephew at an early age, Toni warned Rafael never to break a racquet, since it would be a huge disrespect to the millions of kids who cannot afford one.

“You throw one racket and I’m no longer your coach. There are millions of kids in the world who would love a racket and don’t have one,” said Toni, to his six-year-old nephew.

According to Toni, it was this lesson that stayed on with his nephew, because of which he has never thrown a racquet despite spending three decades on the court.

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Even in the most disappointing circumstances, whether it’s suffering an injury during the match or failing to compete up to the potential, Nadal has kept his composure, regardless.

“Nadal has never broken a racquet. It would be showing a lack of respect to people who actually have to buy the equipment to play the sport,” said Toni.

Apart from his astronomical success, Nadal’s character, an athlete who always remains humble in victory and gracious in defeat, has made him one of the most loved athletes in the world.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion’s ability to channelize his frustration, without smashing racquets or hurling abuses, and turn it into his strength, certainly makes him an outstanding role model for the kids.