Overview
- About a year after retiring in 2024, Nadal practiced at his Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca with former academy trainee Alexandra Eala.
- On X, Nadal wrote that it “felt great to be back on a tennis court” and joked he would be “stronger” next time after the hit with Eala.
- Eala, now 20, trained at the academy from 2018 to 2023 and this year became the first Filipino in the WTA top 50, earning a maiden tour title in September.
- Coverage described the hit as an emotional moment reflecting Nadal’s mentorship role and ongoing presence at his academy.
- Some outlets noted speculation about possible future appearances, but there has been no announcement of exhibition or competitive plans.