"He’s forever going to be remembered as one of the very best athletes in all of sports" - Tom Brady on Rafael Nadal as Spaniard named in Time Magazine's list of 100 Most Influential People of 2022
Rafael Nadal was recently named on Time Magazine's list of the 100 Most Influential People in 2022. Nadal, who has won a men's record 21 Grand Slam titles, was introduced to the list by another sporting legend in Tom Brady.
Time Magazine revealed the names on Monday, choosing people across six categories, namely innovators, leaders, artists, icons, pioneers, and titans. The 21-time Grand Slam champion was named an 'icon'.
In his tribute to the Spaniard, Brady expressed that he is highly inspired each time he sees Nadal conduct himself during matches, and highlighted his determination. Brady said he feels Nadal is one of the greatest sportspersons of all time.
Brady wrote:
"I admire athletes who push themselves to the limit, and I’m absolutely inspired every time Rafa takes the court."
He added:
"There’s something to be learned from watching his determination, his strategy, everything that it takes for him to never take any moment for granted. He’s forever going to be remembered as one of the very best athletes in all of sports."
Congratulations to @RafaelNadal on being named to the @TIME 100 Most Influential People list! bit.ly/3LEe9xy
This is the second time the 13-time French Open winner has featured on Time Magazine's list of the 100 Most Influential People in the world. The first time was back in 2009, when Serena Williams introduced the Spanish great to the list.
Seven-time Super Bowl champion Brady further highlighted the tennis great's ability to produce his best in crucial moments. The NFL great also lauded Nadal's attention to detail and willingness to work hard to get the better of any opponent.
"He has the mental and physical toughness to do what all great athletes do: play their best in the biggest moments. He elevates his emotional state to a place where he can be insanely focused on the smallest thing to create an edge over his opponent, willing himself to victory."
Brady continued:
"It has paid off. When he won the 2022 Australian Open, Rafa earned his 21st Grand Slam singles title—the most of any male tennis player in history."
The Spaniard scripted a comeback for the ages earlier this year to win the 2022 Australian Open, clawing his way back from a two-set deficit to lift the title. In the process, he became the first man ever to win 21 Grand Slams.
Float like a butterfly 🦋
#RolandGarros | @RafaelNadal https://t.co/PocMlMayr5
Rafael Nadal has a chance to extend his incredible record at the French Open
The World No. 5 is chasing more history at Roland Garros, his most successful Slam. The Spaniard is aiming for a record-extending 14th crown in Paris and 22nd Grand Slam title overall
For the first time in many years, the former World No. 1 is not the heavy favorite to win the Roland Garros title. However, he holds a record like no other player ever at the event, with a record of 105 wins and three losses before the tournament commenced, and will certainly fancy his chances of clinching the trophy.
21 Grand Slams. One Rafael Nadal.
#AusOpen @RafaelNadal https://t.co/94wqrk6HfA
Nadal will face Australian Jordan Thompson in the first round at this year's Roland Garros.