A French media outlet has caused a major stir by revealing the latest development between Rafa Nadal and King Felipe. As they have reported, the monarch was not present on one of the most important days for this well-known Spanish tennis player.
Last Sunday, May 25, the Roland Garros tournament wanted to pay tribute to the Mallorcan athlete, the greatest player in history to have graced its court. To do so, they handed out T-jerseys to attendees with the heartfelt message: "Thank you, Rafa".
That day, as expected, Rafa Nadal was accompanied at all times by his family. In addition, during the 48 minutes (48 minutos) that the ceremony lasted, he had the support of his three great rivals: Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray.
However, although it was a day full of emotion and unforgettable moments, French media have now highlighted a notable absence at the event: King Felipe's.
A French magazine reveals the reason why King Felipe didn't attend Rafa Nadal's tribute
The French magazine Point de Vue has dedicated an extensive article to Rafa Nadal, a piece filled with praise for the Spanish athlete. So much so that, according to the aforementioned media outlet, it was "impossible to hold back their tears" during the event.
Furthermore, this publication emphasized that this farewell, which took place six months (seis meses) after his official retirement from tennis, was "worthy of his achievements and the legacy he leaves to his sport".
French media have devoted extensive coverage to the tribute, highlighting the admiration and affection Nadal inspires in France. They have also recalled that, despite his greatness, Nadal has never sought to be the center of attention.
Although one of the most talked-about aspects has been the absence of King Felipe VI. The aforementioned media outlet points out that, until the very last moment, there was an expectation that the Spanish monarch would attend Rafa Nadal's final tribute from the stands.
However, as has emerged, the absence of King Felipe was due to his trip to Wales to attend the graduation of his youngest daughter, Infanta Sofía. "This doesn't call into question his bond with Rafael Nadal," they state from Point de Vue.
Meanwhile, they have also recalled that, throughout his career, the tennis player has been very closely linked to the Spanish royal family. Proof of this is his closeness to Juan Carlos:
"With King Juan Carlos, we can even speak of friendship. They visit each other when they're in Mallorca or Abu Dhabi." Furthermore, the magazine has made it clear that, although "the royal institution generates controversy in Spain, Nadal has never distanced himself from it and has always shown his support".
The tribute was especially intimate, with his family in the front row: his wife Mery Perelló, his son, his sister Maribel, his parents Sebastián and Ana María, and his uncle Toni. In addition, big names like Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Alcaraz were also present at the tribute.