Rafael Nadal is finally able to enjoy a ski trip after years of shunning the hobby to protect his tennis career.
Nadal retires at the end of 2024, ending a brilliant career that included 22 Grand Slam titles.
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The Spanish legend has won a total of 92 ATP titles and climbed to number one in the world rankings.
But now he’s enjoying a well-deserved ski trip, just as pro stars are flexing their muscles at the Winter Olympics.
Photo by Darian Traynor/Getty Images
Lindsey Vonn hopes to ski with Rafael Nadal after recovery
Nadal shared photos from his ski trip on Instagram with the caption: “After 26 years… it feels incredible to be skiing again!”
Skiing legend Lindsey Vonn was quick to comment on the post, writing, “When I’m healthy we have to ski together!”
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American icon Vonn had just competed in the Cortina Olympics in Milan but unfortunately required surgery after a serious car accident in Italy.
Vonn sent another message in Spanish about Nadal’s ski resort of choice, saying: “Yes! I love Baquela!”
Photography: Daniel Kopatsch/VOIGT/GettyImages
Rafael Nadal finally swaps clay for snow
While Nadal may well be talented on the snow, he is best remembered for his efforts on clay.
The Spanish superstar won Grand Slam titles on hard courts and grass, but saved his best tennis results for Roland Garros.
Nadal has an astonishing 14 French Open titles, more than any other player, and Bjorn Borg has won six on behalf of his closest rival.
Photograph: Jean Catuffe/Getty Images
The Spaniard won all 14 finals in Paris and has a plaque dedicated to his memory at the iconic venue.
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Of course, skiing may have been too dangerous a pastime during his career, and Nadal is now free to enjoy his adventures on the slopes.
But since retiring, he has also spent a lot of time on the golf course, as have fellow legends Andy Murray and Roger Federer.
Read more: Andy Murray beats David Beckham and Lewis Hamilton to British sporting honors