May 19, 2025 marks the first official celebration of the World Fair Play Day, a date proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2024 to promote ethical values in sport and society.
At the Rafa Nadal Foundation, we firmly believe that sport is a powerful tool to instill values such as honesty, respect, and solidarity. These principles are fundamental to our educational and sports programs, which aim to support the holistic development of children and young people in vulnerable situations.
In all our projects, fair play is not just taught — it is lived daily. Through sports and educational activities, we promote empathy, teamwork, and resilience, preparing young people to face life’s challenges with integrity and respect.
What does it mean to “play fair”?
Playing fair is not only about following the rules of a sport. Above all, it is an attitude. It involves acting with integrity, recognizing the value of one’s own effort and that of others, being honest in victory and humble in defeat. It means treating others with respect, competing without cheating, accepting decisions with sportsmanship, and knowing how to work as a team.
For children and adolescents, this attitude is key. In stages of life where they are forming their identity, making decisions, and facing emotional and social challenges, learning to play fair teaches them to live together peacefully, resolve conflicts with empathy, and develop a strong personal ethic.
Why is it important for the development of children and adolescents?
Fair play brings fundamental benefits to the comprehensive growth of young people:
- It develops self-esteem and confidence by understanding that personal worth is measured not just by winning, but by effort and commitment.
- It strengthens empathy and respect for others — essential elements for coexistence and social inclusion.
- It promotes emotional self-regulation by teaching how to deal with frustration, rules, and differences.
- It fosters a safe and fair environment, where all children, regardless of their abilities or personal circumstances, have the right to participate and feel valued.
Rafa Nadal: An Example of Fair Play
Our founder, Rafa Nadal, has been recognized many times for his exemplary conduct in sport. His commitment to the values of fair play is reflected in every initiative of the Foundation.
This example inspires each of the Foundation’s actions, where we strongly believe that greatness is also measured by how we compete, live together, and share.
On this World Fair Play Day, we make a call not only to athletes but to all those who believe in a more just, supportive, and respectful society. Fair play is a shared responsibility.
We invite everyone to reflect on the role of sport in shaping individuals of integrity. Let us build environments where equity, diversity, and respect are the foundations that guide our daily actions.