VIDEO: Iga Swiatek Gets a Cute Surprise From Her Idol Rafael Nadal at French Open 2022

As we are getting closer to the start of the French Open 2022, players have started their practice in full swing. Yesterday, many top players practiced with one another, like Rafael Nadal, had a good practice session with the Italian Jannik Sinner. On the women’s side, world no.1, Iga Swiatek, had a good hitting session with former world no.1 Simona Halep. Despite all the intense practice sessions, we saw a fun little interaction between Nadal and Swiatek. The Spaniard surprised the Pol during a training session in a wholesome moment. 

Rafael Nadal surprises Iga Swiatek during a practice session at Roland Garros

It seemed like Nadal was just about to start his practice session, as Iga was just wrapping up her training at Roland Garros. As she was looking in another direction, the Spaniard came from behind and surprised her. It was genuinely a lovely moment between them, as Iga didn’t expect this at all and felt genuinely surprised. Later, they laughed it off as Nadal was walking away. You can see the video below. 

It’s a known fact now that Iga Swiatek idolizes Rafael Nadal, as she previously spoke about it many times. Incidentally, they have met quite a few times already and talked to each other. After the Australian Open loss, Nadal even sent her a message of encouragement. Previously, Swiatek also praised the Spaniard, as she said, “He has some superpowers, just never gives up, physically, tactically, always there on the court. He’s the perfect role model.”

Nadal and Swiatek are ready for the French Open 2022

Following the draw for both men’s and women’s matches yesterday, fans are really looking forward to seeing the matches unfold. No.5 seed Rafael Nadal and the top seed Novak Djokovic were in the same half of the draw, which means they could face each other in the quarter-finals. With all the concerns over his foot injury, this will be a tough tournament for the 21-time Grand Slam champion. Despite all that, he’s still one of the favorites to win the Slam, as he has done it 13 times before.

On the other hand, Iga Swiatek will face a qualifier in her very first match and could potentially face Paula Badosa in the semis. It’s safe to say, she is pretty much a heavy favorite to lift the title this year, which will be the second time in her career. 

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Source: | This article originally belongs to Essentially Sports