The King of Clay, Rafael Nadal, received a special honour from King Felipe VI of Spain for his remarkable career.
According to ATP Tour, King Felipe VI bestowed the first-ever noble titles of his regime on Thursday, and former tennis professional Nadal was also named as Marquess of Llevant de Mallorca for his illustrious career and impact on Spain globally as well as within its borders.
‘Source of pride for Spain’
Besides Nadal, swimmer Teresa Perales and singer Luz Casal were also granted the Spanish nobility titles.
The King’s House expressed, “They are exponents of excellence, whether in service of the Crown or in the field of philosophy, culture, science, arts, or sport. They are a source of pride for Spain and a permanent example of the values that should inspire our society.”
“The name of Spain both within and outside our borders, projecting values of self-improvement, respect, and excellence," said the royal household.
Rafael Nadal's career:
The 39-year-old took retirement from professional tennis at the Davis Cup after one of the most illustrious careers with 22 Grand Slam titles.
He won 14 French Open titles between 2005 and 2022, due to which he is called the “King of Clay,” and also won two Olympic gold medals.
Notably, Nadal was previously granted the Prince of Asturias Award for Sports in 2008 at the age of 22 years from the hands of Prince Felipe, who was crowned King of Spain in 2014.
