Rafael Nadal swaps tennis for golf and shines in Mallorca tournament

Rafael Nadal took advantage of his early exit from the French Open to participate in a golf tournament in Spain. The 22-time Grand Slam champion returned to Roland Garros with doubts about his physical condition and the level he would show after a hip injury earlier this year.

The former world No. 1 had a tough debut against Alexander Zverev and could do little against the German (who is now in the semifinals of the tournament), losing 3-6, 6-7, 3-6. Nadal quickly switched from his tennis racket to a golf club, a sport he has been practicing for several years and in which he has shown nearly professional-level skill.

In February of this year, Nadal won the Balearic Islands Mid-Amateur Championship with a good lead over his competitors. According to the Royal Spanish Golf Federation, Nadal's handicap is -1.2, which qualifies him to potentially compete at a professional level.

Nadal's love for golf has been evident for many years, and many of his colleagues have praised his great skill. 'Rafa' takes advantage of his days off from the tennis courts to play in a golf tournament in his hometown of Mallorca, posing with the trophy on social media after winning with a clear margin over all his competitors.

"A special tournament, a different tournament.... Simply the @golfsonservera 2024 Nations Cup . A magical day full of golf honouring the 16 nationalities of our partners! The course in perfect condition made @rafaelnadal win the 2024 title for Spain. A great day of golf in paradise."