Rafael Nadal Enjoys The Experience At Rio Carnaval Ahead Of Title Defense At The 2015 Rio Open

Thousands of spectators including World No. 3 Rafael Nadal were amazed by dazzling lights, music and high spirits at the Carnival Samba Parade at Rio de Janeiro. Nadal, who is in town to defend his title at the Rio Open, embraced the carnival spirit with fellow compatriot David Ferrer and former World No. 1 Gustavo “Guga” Kuerten.

Even the rain could not stop the fun at the carnival. Nadal was all smiles during the parade. He took several pictures with fans and also danced hand-in-hand with a lady, according to a report by Brazilian news outlet Globo Esporte. He also described the mesmerizing feeling of Rio Carnaval.

“An incredible energy, never seen anything like it, I’m thrilled,” Nadal said. “It has been a fantastic parade and carnival experience for the first time.”

Nadal also shared a snap of him with Ferrer and Kuerten on Facebook. Nadal and Ferrer sang the “Samba Enredo - Veias do Brasil” as they made their way during the opening of the street party. It was reportedly the first time the Nadal and Ferrer had been to Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí.

Nadal arrived in the South American nation on Feb. 11. As soon as he arrived, Nadal had already spoken about his desire to experience the Rio Carnival, adding that he always had a “fascination” and wanted to know what the festival was like.

The 14-time grand slam champion will begin his title defense against top Brazilian Thomas Bellucci in the first round on Feb. 17. Ferrer, on the other hand, will play fellow compatriot Daniel Gimeno-Traver also on Feb. 17.’

Other players who will be competing at the Rio Open include Tommy Robredo, Nicolas Almagro, and Fabio Fognini. The women’s lineup boasts great athletes from the Women’s Tennis Association Tour such as 2012 French Open runner-up Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci.

The 2015 Rio Open is only the second edition of the tournament. The main draw has already started on Feb. 16, which will run until Feb. 22. In the inaugural 2014 Rio Open, Nadal won the men’s singles trophy, while Japanese Kurumi Nara won in the women’s draw. In the men’s doubles event, Colombians Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah won the title while Spanish Irina-Camelia Begu and Argentine Maria Irigoyen took home the women’s doubles title.

Video source: YouTube/Rafael Nadal King of Tennis

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