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Rafa Nadal and Toni at his Academy
ATP Tennis Players, Rafa Nadal, Tennis News

‘I am happy for him and Felix’, says Rafa Nadal on Uncle Toni coaching Auger-Aliassime


Rafael Nadal is happy his uncle and former coach Toni Nadal is working with Felix Auger-Aliassime, and believes it will be “an important help” for the Canadian.

The Spaniard has been coaching the 20-year-old for the first time at a tournament ahead of this week’s Monte Carlo Masters. World No. 3 Nadal – an 11-time Monte Carlo champion – will also feature at the year’s first big clay court event.

“I am happy for him. At the same time, happy (for the) academy (to) have somebody (working) with such a great player like Felix. (That) is a positive thing,” Nadal said in a pre-tournament press conference.

“Toni has a lot of experience. He knows a lot about this sport. He has all the knowledge that somebody needs. I am sure that (is) going to be an important help for Felix.

“I don’t have any problem. I always said the same: I want the best for Toni. He’s my uncle. I am very grateful for all the things that he did for me. I am happy that he’s on the tour a couple of weeks.

“At the same time I am happy for Felix. It’s going to be a good support, (to) have a great coach like Toni next to him. Happy for me, too. I am happy to see my uncle here, spend time with him here on the tour again.”

World No. 21 Auger Aliassime – who faces Cristian Garin in his first match at the Masters 1000 event on Monday – had previously received advice from the 60-year-old coach while training at the Rafa Nadal Academy.


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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.