Nadal meets 95-year old fan after loss to Zverev in Madrid

Despite failing to reach the semifinals of the Madrid Open, Rafael Nadal still had enough time to grant this wishes of a fan following his loss to Alexander Zverev on Friday.

Prior to his quarterfinal match, the top seed read some heartfelt words from fans on social media. However, a certain message captured his attention above the others.

“Today, my grandmother, at 95 years of age, will fulfil her dream of seeing you live,” wrote Carlos Carrizosa, the grandson of the lady in this story. “She is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and she told me that before she forgets what tennis and you mean to her, she wanted to see you live. I hope that she enjoys this day as much as I’m enjoying it.”

Carrizosa’s grandmother, Manuela Navarro Esteban, made her way to the Manolo Santana Stadium on Friday and was able to watch the 20-time Grand slam champion perform his craft. Although the Spaniard fell to Zverev, he still made time to meet with Manuela after the match, who patiently waited for him at the exit to the locker rooms.

They shared a conversation in which they were able to exchange pleasantries and words of affection. Nadal met one of his most fervent supporters, which was also an indication of what he represents to so many generations of fans. And Manuela, simply delighted to see him play live, then had the pleasure of meeting him face to face.