Rafa

By: Rafael Nadal, John Carlin

Narrated by: Bernardo Cubria, Nicholas Guy Smith

In his memoir, written with award-winning journalist John Carlin, tennis star Rafael Nadal reveals the secrets of his game and shares the inspiring personal story behind his success.
What makes a champion? What does it take to be the best in the world at your sport? Rafael Nadal has the answers.
It begins in Mallorca, where the tight-knit Nadal family has lived for generations. Coached by his uncle Toni from the age of four and taught humility and respect by his parents, Nadal has managed the uncommon feat of becoming an acclaimed global celebrity while remaining a gracious, hardworking role model for people in all walks of life.
Now he takes us behind the scenes, from winning the Wimbledon 2008 final -- described by John McEnroe as "the greatest game of tennis" he had ever seen -- to the family problems that brought him low in 2009 and the numerous injuries that have threatened his career.
With candor and intelligence, Nadal brings readers on his dramatic and triumphant journey, never losing sight of the prize he values above all others: the unity and love of his family.
From RAFA:"During a match, you are in a permanent battle to fight back your everyday vulnerabilities, bottle up your human feelings. The more bottled up they are, the greater your chances of winning, so long as you've trained as hard as you play and the gap in talent is not too wide between you and your rival. The gap in talent with Federer existed, but it was not impossibly wide. It was narrow enough, even on his favorite surface in the tournament he played best, for me to know that if I silenced the doubts and fears, and exaggerated hopes, inside my head better than he did, I could beat him. You have to cage yourself in protective armor, turn yourself into a bloodless warrior. It's a kind of self-hypnosis, a game you play, with deadly seriousness, to disguise your own weaknesses from yourself, as well as from your rival."

Amazing Story!

Such an amazing story of one of the worlds greatest players! Love the readers voices! I can totally imagine them reading this book in my mind!

Determination

I love tennis & learning about it. This book took me inside of Rafael’s head and how he thinks. To be able to read what makes him a great champion is impressive! His discipline, dedication & how he handles the injuries & personal challenges is what sets him apart. I thought I might be bored with this book yet instead I am inspired! So much of what he talks about is like a game of chess! staying a few steps ahead of your opponent and always giving your best! It applies to life itself. Thank you for such a raw & authentic book.

Bueno aunque con reparos

Rafa es una maquina. Al libro creo que le falto. No me gusto mucho la división entre la narracion de otro y la de rafa

Rafa is the best

Thoroughly enjoyed listening to RAFA story about his athletic conditioning, and also about his mental understanding of what’s important around him, and how to achieve his greatness, very uplifting story, showing as he would say, the parts are bigger than the hole. Bravo!

An excellent book and life lessons.

Rafa has done it again showing real values of family and keeping a clear head in most challenging times. Many thanks. I loved it.