Baby Rafa watches dad Rafael Nadal on practice courts for United Cup
Rafael Nadal’s cute-as-a-button baby boy has made his Australian debut, cradled by his mum as they watched the world No 2 practice at Sydney Olympic Park. SEE OUR EXCLUSIVE PICTURES
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Baby Rafa has made his first Australian public appearance, protectively cradled by his mum at the side of the court as his champion tennis player father Rafael Nadal had a hit at Sydney Olympic Park.
Nadal, 36, was on one of the practice courts ahead of his appearance at the inaugural United Cup as wife Mery “Xisca” Perello and baby son Rafa observed quietly.
Onlookers seemed oblivious to the fact it was a rare public appearance for the bub since his birth in October.
Nadal maintained firm focus on his game, taking part in the practice session with American Denis Kudla.
A short while into the session, Perello placed the baby into a pram and placed a blanket over him.
Nadal and his family arrived in Australia on Tuesday night, arriving slightly later than other international competitors so they could enjoy their first Christmas together as a family.
On Wednesday, Nadal joked with The Daily Telegraph when asked about juggling fatherhood with the stresses of the sport.
Well, the first event I play (as) a father without the baby with me, I lost first round,” Nadal said.
“Second event, travelling with the baby, I was out of the group stage. At the end I won my last match, but I need to keep improving, no?
“Easy. We have some help. No problem at all.
“Just I need to organise a little bit my life, as everybody needs to do when you have a child in your life.”
In November, Nadal spoke about first time fatherhood.
“I am more tired as I am sleeping less than before,” he wrote on Twitter.
“(Of course) there’s a new concern in my life different from everything I have experienced until now.
“I am living naturally.
“I’m a regular father who experiences emotions and happiness, trying to enjoy every moment spent with my son.”
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