“He talks to you like a normal guy”: Felix Auger-Aliassime recalls his experience with Rafael Nadal at his Academy
ATP
Felix Auger-Aliassime revealed what it’s like to work with Rafael Nadal at his academy and praised the humility of the 22-time Grand Slam champion. The Canadian has visited the Rafa Nadal Academy several times to train and observe the Spaniard’s demeanour with those at his sports centre.
The 24-year-old appeared on the latest episode of The Slice Tennis podcast, where he discussed his interactions with Nadal. “I went to his academy a few times to train. We didn’t have extended conversations, I think ever, but he was always so humble. I know I am repeating what people say, but it’s true,” Auger-Aliassime said.
“For the superstar he is – I feel like we are used to in American sports that these guys are massive celebrities and they almost feel like you can’t talk to them. They don’t feel obtainable in the way,” Auger-Aliassime added. “But Rafa, when you speak to him, he talks to you like a normal guy. He is super, super humble and I respect that a lot.”
Auger-Aliassime reflects on matches and moments with Nadal
The Canadian expressed admiration for Nadal’s ability to remain humble despite being one of the greatest tennis players of all time. “To have that level of success in your sport, to be a legend, and to stay so down-to-earth is not something everyone can do. I respect and admire that a lot.”
Auger-Aliassime has faced Nadal three times in his career. Their first encounter was when the Canadian was just 18, on the clay courts of Madrid in 2019, where Nadal defeated him 6-3, 6-3. “The first match we played was in Madrid, 2019. Actually, I played Denis (Shapovalov) in the first round, and the winner of the match was going to play Rafa,” the World No. 29 recalled.
“We were like, ‘That is a crazy draw’ – you play your good friend, and the winner of your match gets to play Rafa in Madrid. I was just 18, and it was my first year playing all those matches,” he added. “It was intimidating. I was like, I just don’t want to get embarrassed. We were playing on clay. In my whole life, I have never been scared of a loss.”
“I can say I have had some bad losses in my whole life, as a junior or whatever, but this one, I was like, let me just put on something that’s up to what I know I can do. The match was okay, it was three and four. But that was a good memory, the first time we played.”
Three years later, they met at Roland Garros, where Nadal claimed his last Major title. On this occasion, Auger-Aliassime, the 9th seed, pushed Nadal to a fifth set but ultimately couldn’t overcome the Spaniard’s supremacy at Roland Garros. That same year, they faced off for the final time at the ATP Finals on indoor hardcourt, where Auger-Aliassime emerged victorious, 6-3, 6-4.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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