Rafael Nadal retired from professional tennis in November 2024 at the Davis Cup Finals. The 22time Major winner stayed away from the court for a year, taking a break from his beloved sport and focusing on his family and business.
Now, the Spaniard is back in action at his Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, sharing the court with Alexandra Eala a couple of days ago. On Friday, the legend embraced another session and took a picture with his partner and her coach.
Nadal practiced with the rising star Alina Korneeva, coached by Anabel Medina Garrigues. Like Eala, Korneeva is Rafa Nadal Academy standout, returning to her beloved complex following a nasty injury and preparing for the new season.
1️⃣7️⃣ @rolandgarros 🏆 in one 📸! 🤗
Great practice! @RafaelNadal & Alina Korneeva 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/emBTo86ef0
— Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar (@rnadalacademy) November 28, 2025
The picture caption playfully notes "17 Roland Garros trophies in one picture." Rafa claimed 14 Roland Garros crowns between 2005 and 2022, dominating at a single Major like no one before him.
In addition, Medina Garrigues clinched two doubles crowns in Paris in 2008 and 2009. Alina knows how it feels to celebrate at the clay Major as well, lifting the junior singles crown in 2023.
Their presence stands as a quiet testament to the enduring power of mentorship. Rafa is eager to share his knowledge with the rising stars, and Alina is the latest prodigy on that list.
For Korneeva, the practice session with the King of clay was crucible rather than another off-season run. Once ranked as the world's top junior, the Russian is trying to shape up her game following a wrist injury that required surgery.
Nadal knows better than anyone what it takes to overcome physical setbacks and rediscover the relentless rhythm and remain competitive. The Spaniard claimed two Major titles in the first half of 2022 after overcoming massive physical issues.
Rafael Nadal© Stream screenshot
However, he spent the second part of the season recovering from an abdominal muscle injury, missing a chance to become the year-end no. 1 player at 36. Nadal experienced a massive blow at the 2023 Australian Open.
He injured his left hip and missed the rest of the season, embracing the most extended break from professional tennis. The warrior returned in 2024 and gave everything to recover his game and chase notable titles.
However, his body did not allow him that. Thus, the legend ended his career at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, closing his incredible tennis journey and joining other retired immortals of our sport.