Rafael Nadal’s uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, to work with rising star Felix Auger-Aliassime
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.”
Welcome aboard Toni 🙌🏽 pic.twitter.com/BGH0HIapUr
— Félix AugerAliassime (@felixtennis) April 8, 2021
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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