Rafa Nadal Receives Honorary Doctorate and Advocates for Sport as a Bridge of Union
The renowned tennis player Rafa Nadal has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Salamanca, a recognition of his career and values. At the ceremony, Nadal highlighted the crucial role of sport as a vehicle for coexistence and respect in a polarized world. Before the assembly of doctors gathered in the historic Paraninfo, Nadal thanked for the honor, attributing it to the education received from his family and the experiences lived on the courts and his travels around the world.Nadal emphasized that sport, as a point of union, can inspire in a world he considers troubled. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of discipline, daily effort, and a “healthy ambition” in which “the end does not justify the means”. The tennis player also shared how injuries and uncertainty taught him valuable lessons, such as the importance of returning with enthusiasm and energy, even in adverse circumstances. Nadal recalled an anecdote from his adolescence, when his parents prevented him from participating in the Roland Garros junior tournament due to exams. Despite the initial disappointment, he understood that this decision was a great lesson about the importance of values and education. The University of Salamanca proposed an alliance with the Rafa Nadal Foundation to collaborate in the development of sports training centers and in other social areas. The rector of the academic institution, José Manuel Corchado, highlighted that it is the first time an athlete has received this recognition, emphasizing the values of effort, self-improvement, and excellence that Nadal represents. Nadal expressed openness to future collaborations with the university, considering it an honor to have the possibility of working with an institution of such prestige.Sport can create hope where there was only despair before.
Rafa Nadal
