On December 3rd, we celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day that invites us to reflect on the rights, inclusion, and opportunities for people with disabilities. At the Rafa Nadal Foundation, we want to take this opportunity to highlight the work of our Más Que Tenis project, developed in collaboration with Special Olympics Spain, which uses sport as a tool to promote the social inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.
The Impact of Más Que Tenis
Through Más Que Tenis, we currently support more than 350 athletes with intellectual disabilities in 30 schools across Spain. This project not only teaches the technical skills of tennis but also creates a safe and positive space where participants develop values such as camaraderie, perseverance, and respect.
Tennis becomes much more than a sport: it is a pathway to improving physical, social, and emotional well-being. Training sessions and competitions boost self-esteem, communication skills, and self-confidence, enabling athletes to break down barriers and face new challenges with determination.
Sport and Inclusion: A Transformative Tool
Sport has a unique power to bring people together and break down social barriers. For people with intellectual disabilities, tennis offers multiple benefits:
• Physical development: improved coordination, strength, and agility.
• Emotional growth: enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Socialization: creation of bonds among peers and coaches in an inclusive environment.
• Sense of belonging: being part of a team and participating in sports activities fosters social integration.
Más Que Tenis: More Than Just Sport
Through this project, we not only promote access to sports but also help raise awareness in society about the importance of inclusion. Every training session, tournament, or activity is an opportunity to demonstrate that diversity enriches our community and that everyone has the right to reach their full potential.
On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we want to honor the athletes of Más Que Tenis and all people with disabilities who teach us every day that there are no limits to overcoming challenges. We remain committed to building a more inclusive world where sport serves as a tool for transforming lives and breaking down barriers.
