Rafael Nadal’s uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, to work with rising star Felix Auger-Aliassime

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Rafael Nadal and Toni Nadal coaching

The uncle and former coach of Rafael Nadal, Toni Nadal, will return to coaching as he will team up with young Canadian star Felix Auger-Aliassime.

Nadal senior will be in Auger-Aliassime’s box for the Monte-Carlo Masters which starts this weekend.

The Spaniard says that he spent 10 days working with the 20-year-old at the Rafael Nadal Academy in Manacor before deciding to become his new coach.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper, Marca, he said: “I did not consider the possibility of training another player. To know that, as director of the Academy, I can collaborate with a player who has the highest aspirations, it is a challenge that particularly satisfies me.

“Let’s hope that in the future Felix will be number one in the world. For now, he has to improve.”

Toni coached his nephew from 1990 to 2017 during which time Rafael won 16 Grand Slams.

He added: “I have special affection for my nephew but if he were to lose to someone let it be Felix. I don’t stop being Rafael’s uncle.

“I could not work with someone who was not respectful and did not have values. I was lucky to work with a kid (Rafael) who was respectful and set a good example. I expect the same.

“Felix is a youngster who should, in theory, be among the best in the world in the coming years”

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Felix Auger-Aliassime Rafael Nadal

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