An open letter: Björn Borg has written an open letter praising and empowering Rafael Nadal’s Tennis Academy in Manacor, Mallorca.
In a heartfelt and inspiring gesture that has captured the attention of the global tennis community, Swedish legend Björn Borg has written an open letter praising and empowering Rafael Nadal’s Tennis Academy in Manacor, Mallorca. The 11-time Grand Slam champion, who has long been admired for his quiet dignity and revolutionary role in shaping modern tennis, used his words to recognize Nadal’s vision of nurturing the next generation of players while promoting values that extend far beyond the court.
Borg, often referred to as the “Ice Man” of tennis for his calm demeanor and iron-clad focus, has rarely spoken publicly about initiatives outside his personal endeavors. But this time, the 68-year-old champion said he felt compelled to highlight what Nadal has built in Spain — not just a world-class academy, but a sanctuary where talent, discipline, and humility intertwine.
A Letter Rooted in Respect
In the letter, Borg begins by acknowledging his admiration for Nadal’s career, particularly the Spaniard’s relentless fighting spirit and his ability to inspire millions through resilience and sportsmanship. “What you have accomplished on the court, Rafael, is monumental,” Borg wrote. “But what you are doing off the court, through your Academy, might prove even greater for the future of tennis.”
Borg’s words carry immense weight. As one of the sport’s earliest global superstars, he knows the pressures young athletes face. He commended Nadal for ensuring that the Academy is not just about producing champions, but also about raising grounded individuals who carry themselves with integrity.
A Call to the Next Generation
The letter also doubled as a motivational message to aspiring players at the Nadal Academy. Borg reminded them that hard work, patience, and character remain as vital as technical skill. He reflected on his own journey, recalling the discipline that propelled him to six French Open and five Wimbledon titles.
“You may train with the best facilities and coaches,” Borg addressed the Academy’s young players, “but remember that greatness comes from within. Learn from Rafael — he fought every point as if it were the last, but he also carried respect for the game, his opponents, and himself. If you can balance those values, you will carry tennis forward in the right spirit.”
For Borg, the Academy represents more than an elite training ground; it is a laboratory for building future leaders, role models, and ambassadors for the sport.
A Meeting of Eras
The open letter also highlighted a symbolic connection between eras. Borg, who dominated tennis in the 1970s and early 1980s, retired early but left a lasting impact on how tennis is played and perceived. Nadal, who often cited Borg as an influence, brought similar tenacity to clay courts decades later, rewriting history with 14 French Open titles.
In his letter, Borg noted this continuity: “When I see the red clay in Paris, I think of the years we fought on it. But when I see you, Rafael, I see the spirit reborn, carried with even greater passion. Through your Academy, you are ensuring that this spirit does not fade with us, but grows stronger with every new player who learns under your guidance.”
Global Endorsement of Nadal’s Vision
Borg’s endorsement gives a new level of international recognition to Nadal’s Academy, which already boasts state-of-the-art facilities, a resident school for academics, and programs that host athletes from all over the world. His words are seen as a seal of approval from one of the sport’s most respected legends.
Analysts believe Borg’s letter may encourage other former champions to contribute actively to similar initiatives, linking tennis history with its future. In an age where commercial pressures often overshadow values, the letter serves as a reminder of what the sport should stand for.
Nadal Responds with Gratitude
In response to the letter, Nadal expressed deep gratitude, calling Borg “a legend and an inspiration.” He added, “For me, to receive such words from Björn is an honor beyond words. His career inspired me when I was young, and for him to now recognize what we are building here at the Academy means the world. We want to help the next generation not only become better players, but also better people. That is our mission.”
Nadal also noted that Borg’s message would be shared with the Academy’s students as a permanent reminder of the values they must uphold. “This letter will stay here as a legacy,” Nadal said. “Because tennis is more than trophies — it is about leaving something behind that makes the sport stronger.”
A Lasting Legacy
Björn Borg’s open letter is more than a tribute; it is a bridge between generations and a rallying cry for young athletes. In using his voice to empower Nadal’s vision, Borg has underlined the importance of continuity, mentorship, and humility in sport.
For the tennis world, the gesture is a poignant reminder that greatness is not just measured in victories or records, but in the ability to inspire others to chase excellence with integrity.
And for the students training under Nadal in Mallorca, Borg’s words are likely to echo each morning as they lace up their shoes, step onto the court, and strive to embody the values of two legends who redefined tennis in their own ways.
