Nadal awarded an honorary doctorate by the Technical University of Madrid

27.03.2026

RNA Editorial.

The example of Rafael Nadal has powerfully transcended the boundaries of sport, turning his effort, perseverance and capacity for sacrifice into a guide applicable to all areas of life. The Mallorcan was awarded an honorary doctorate by the Technical University of Madrid (UPM), where he received unanimous recognition from the academic world. The 22-time Grand Slam champion expressed his gratitude to the institution during a speech full of common sense, especially addressed to the younger generations

“In elite sport, as in engineering or any scientific discipline, talent is important, but never enough on its own,” explained the Spaniard, recognised following a proposal from the Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences. “Behind any achievement there is always a long process of preparation, analysis, constant work and continuous improvement. Values such as rigour, the pursuit of excellence, teamwork and commitment deeply connect with what we experience in professional sport.”

“Throughout my career I have received different honours, but those that come from the academic world have a special meaning, because they represent the respect of an institution dedicated to knowledge, education and the progress of society,” Nadal acknowledged, having previously been honoured by the European University of Madrid (2015) and by the University of Salamanca (2025).

At an institution dedicated to educating the next generations, the Mallorcan highlighted the importance of effort, daily improvement and determination to learn in the most difficult moments. A mindset that allowed him to achieve excellence in sport without ever abandoning the most admirable values.

“Having short-, medium- and long-term goals is essential. To achieve them, you need to get up every day with enthusiasm and the determination to give your very best,” he said. “Along the way, we all go through difficult moments. It’s precisely in those moments that it becomes most important to maintain a positive attitude and keep working, often without immediate results. It is in that constant effort that, almost without realising it, improvement begins.”

Handling success

Rafa encouraged those present to keep their feet on the ground, to treat success as just another ingredient along the way, and to put simplicity above anything else.

“Success, for its part, can be deceptive. It’s essential to always maintain humility and self-criticism. Success is fleeting and should not distract from the work. Listening to the team, accepting mistakes and continuing to improve is key. Even in moments of greatest success, there is always room for improvement.”

“In the end, achieving goals requires time, perseverance, continuous adjustments and sustained commitment over years. Success doesn’t come quickly or by chance,” he added. “Since I was a child in Mallorca, I learned that progress doesn’t come through big changes, but through small daily improvements: hitting the ball a little better, understanding the game better, learning from every win and every loss,” he said, before leaving a final message for the youngest.

“To students, I’d like to tell you to trust your talent, but above all your ability to work. Make the most of every opportunity, don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and always stay consistent and humble. You have the ability to make a difference.”