06 Jun RAFA
This Year’s French Open is Epic
Reaching approximately 324 million viewers globally in 2025, the 2026 edition is expected to surpass that figure as tennis continues to grow in the US and internationally, demonstrating the sport’s expanding appeal.
The 2026 French Open is a bridge between eras. This year’s story has been about the many new and exciting young players who play at a level never seen before.
As we look forward to a bright future, it is important to celebrate the historical significance of tennis. The recently debuted Rafa documentary shows what tennis players know and love: tennis is difficult, and this is what makes it special. Winning one French Open is special, yet Rafa Nadal won fourteen.
Do yourself a favor and watch Rafa on Netflix. It left me thinking about a few important lessons:
- Rafa was injured for much of his career, yet he never let pain be an excuse. It made me ask: What is holding me back from being my best?
- Uncle Tony was demanding, but Rafa embraced his coaching. It challenged me to consider: When do I avoid the hard path in favor of an easier one? What might happen if I consistently chose the bolder path?
- Enthusiasm is a choice. It is not always easy, but it is always worth it.
- Uncle Tony built the player through mindset, discipline, and relentless topspin. Later, Carlos Moya refined the champion and helped take him to another level of success. Even after becoming one of the greatest players of all time, Rafa was willing to change, learn, and grow.
That may be the lesson that resonates most: greatness is not a destination. The best keep evolving.