Sebastian Korda opens up about first meeting with Rafael Nadal

Sebastian Korda has gained over 150 positions on the ATP ranking list in the past 13 months, claiming his first Challenger titles, reaching the ATP final and the Major last 16.

Korda introduced himself to the tennis world last October at Roland Garros, passing three qualifying rounds and beating three main-draw rivals to set the fourth-round clash with his idol Rafael Nadal. The Spaniard won the match 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 in an hour and 55 minutes, overpowering Korda in tough and windy conditions to remain on the title course. Korda said that he learned a lot from that match, accomplishing his dream of facing Rafa at Roland Garros.

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"Since I was a little kid, I always admired Nadal the most out of any other tennis player. And I always said that my dream match would be to play Rafa on Court Philippe-Chatrier. To have it happen was an incredible moment, and I didn't want to miss an opportunity to ask for a shirt and a signature and thank him for inspiring so many other little kids around the world to play the great game of tennis.

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I have the shirt hanging up in my room; it's a moment I'll cherish forever. I talked with Rafa after the match for like ten or 15 minutes. He was a super nice guy and very supportive. Rafa told me that I have the game to become a great player," Sebastian Korda said.