"Our hearts ache" - Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz send messages of 'strength' as storm Dana rips through Spain; Paula Badosa makes donation to victims
Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Paula Badosa have sent messages of strength and prayers after a tropical storm wreaked havoc in Spain. Storm Dana caused flash floods to the eastern coast of Spain, with major population centers like Valencia receiving a year's worth of rain in just eight hours.
Dana is a Spanish acronym for "Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos," which translates in English to an isolated low-pressure system at upper levels. The storm hit eastern and southern Spain earlier this week, leading to torrential rainfall and massive flooding. At least 95 people have been reportedly killed by flooding, with more casualties expected as the search for survivors continues.
Dana has disseminated cities, with Valencia being the worst hit, and led to road closures and a halt in rail services. Amid the hardships in their homeland, Spain's biggest tennis stars, Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Paula Badosa, took to social media to send messages of encouragement and sympathy to their compatriots.
"All my love to those who have lost loved ones due to Dana and much strength to those who continue to search for the missing," Carlos Alcaraz tweeted.
"Today has been a sad day with the suffering and pain caused by Dana in our country. Our hearts ache when we see the images. My love and encouragement to all those who have suffered the loss of family and friends. Strength and courage to all," Rafael Nadal wrote.
"Much encouragement and strength to all the victims affected by the tremendous torrential rains," Paula Badosa wrote.
In addition, Paula Badosa also joined hands with the Red Cross and made a financial donation to help those in need. She also encouraged others to donate whatever they could and shared a post from the Red Cross showing how to make such a donation.
"Many people are suffering and it is essential that we join forces to help them. I have already made my donation, and I encourage you to consider doing the same. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a huge difference in the lives of those in need. Thank you," Badosa tweeted.
Rafael Nadal's academy in Mallorca hard hit by storm Dana
Mallorca, located on the Balearic islands, was amongst the first locations hit by flooding and hailstorms due to storm Dana. The Rafael Nadal Tennis Academy, situated in Manacor, Mallorca, endured damage from constant rains, with floods inundating outside courts and battering the facilities.
The academy's official social media account shared pictures of the damaged property on October 28, alongside an update on the situation. RNA assured fans that everything was under control and thanked the maintenance staff for their efforts.
The Rafael Nadal Tennis Academy was opened in the 22-time Grand Slam champion's hometown of Manacor in 2016. It hosts a Challenger-level tournament every year. RNA's most notable alums include Jauame Munar, Alex Eala, and Martin Landaluce.
Three-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud also trained at the academy.