Dhanush says 'thank you for inspiring millions' after witnessing Rafael Nadal's documentary 'Rafa'
Mumbai, June 8
Dhanush had a fanboy moment after witnessing the Netflix documentary "Rafa", based on the life of former tennis player Rafael Nadal.
In an emotional post on social media, Dhanush revealed that the documentary made him realize what the player went through throughout his journey.
Expressing his regret for all the times he lost his temper as Nadal lost a match or even a point, he wrote, "Watching this documentary and realizing everything you went through to give your all to the sport was overwhelming. Without knowing the pain, the stress, and the anxiety you were carrying, I regret all those times I shouted at the TV when you lost a point, a set, or a match: "Vamos Rafa, you could have done better." "Why are you making this so hard on yourself? (sic)."
The 'Tere Ishk Mein' actor shared that now he finally understands all the rituals and routines followed by Nadal, such as the perfectly placed water bottles, clearing the lines, adjusting the hair, and pulling the shorts.
"They never just superstitions. They were part of a battle against anxiety, stress, and a body that was constantly wearing you down", he added.
Applauding the player for overcoming his limitations to reach the heights of his glorious career, Dhanush went on to write, "With countless injuries and a chronic foot condition, you still managed to climb the toughest of mountains. To imagine what you could have achieved without that foot condition is almost impossible. Still , still 24-22 grand slams is a very thin margin .. VERY THIN."
"With all due respect, I know the stats are with Djokovic. I know many believe the game belongs to Federer. But for me, my Phoenix, you are and will always be the GOAT", he added, like a true admirer.
At the end of the heartfelt note, Dhanush expressed his gratitude towards Nadal for sacrificing his body and soul for the game and also for being a true inspiration for millions around the world.
"Forever a fan", the 'Atrangi Re' actor signed off.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is so beautiful. Dhanush has always been an underdog who worked his way up in the industry, so he understands the struggle. "Phoenix" is such a fitting name for Rafa - he rose from so many injuries. 😢
As a tennis fan from the US, this is heartwarming. Dhanush's raw honesty about shouting at the TV mirrors what millions felt. The way he connects Nadal's rituals to mental health battles is spot on. Two legends respecting each other.
Finally someone said it! "Very thin margin" - 22 Grand Slams with that foot condition is unreal. Nadal's mental strength is something we Indians can learn from in our daily lives. Whether it's exams, career or personal struggles, his never-give-up attitude is pure inspiration.
I love how Dhanush admits his own ignorance before watching the documentary. That's growth, yaar. We often judge athletes without knowing their inner battles. Rafa's OCD-like rituals make so much sense now. Vamos Rafa! 🔥
I'm not even a tennis fan but this post by Dhanush is making me want to watch the documentary. The way he describes Rafa's sacrifices - "body and soul" - it's profound. From India to Spain, sports unites us all. ❤️
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