At the Rafa Nadal Foundation, we deeply believe in the power of sport as a tool for social transformation. Not only for the physical benefits it brings, but also for its ability to unite, inspire, and dignify. In this spirit, More Than Tennis was born—a project we carry out in collaboration with Special Olympics Spain, aimed at people with intellectual disabilities.
But, as its name suggests, this is much more than just tennis. It’s a space for connection, growth, and equality. An environment where sport becomes a path for personal and social development, and where every athlete takes center stage—recognized and admired.
A structure designed to respect and empower
From the very beginning of the program, we understood that true inclusion requires organization, commitment, and quality. That’s why More Than Tennis is developed through schools across the country, in collaboration with local clubs and organizations, and supported by coaches and volunteers trained to accompany participants with sensitivity, professionalism, and adapted demands.
We offer regular, well-planned, and structured training—just as we would for any other group of athletes. We use high-quality sports equipment, provide a safe and stimulating environment, and apply methodologies focused on each individual’s abilities, not their limitations.
This approach is intentional. Because when it comes to inclusion, it’s not enough to “provide access”—we must ensure that access happens with dignity, with resources, and with respect. Every athlete deserves to develop under optimal conditions, to feel part of a team, to set goals, and to celebrate achievements.
More Than Tennis not only promotes physical and technical development; it also supports emotional well-being, autonomy, and social integration.
For many people with intellectual disabilities, sport means far more than a healthy routine. It is a path to making friends, building self-esteem, discovering talents, and developing skills that are also useful off the court—in everyday life, in relationships, and in their way of being in the world.
From experience, we know that sport can be a turning point in a person’s life. When someone feels they belong, sees their progress, surpasses themselves, and feels believed in, a powerful inner light is lit—and that light fuels change and empowerment.
Dignity through action, not just words
At every training session, every tournament, every meeting—we see athletes. People with names, with stories, with goals, with passions. People who strive, fall and rise, cheer each other on, and celebrate big and small victories. People who are not looking for pity, but for real opportunities to grow.
That’s why at the Rafa Nadal Foundation, we develop programs like More Than Tennis: with rigor, consistency, high standards, and a firm belief that dignity is not given—it is guaranteed through daily, coherent action.
A fairer society is built by example
More Than Tennis doesn’t only impact the participants. It affects their families, who see their sons and daughters gain confidence and feel valued. It affects clubs and coaches, who discover new ways to teach and learn. And it affects all of us who have the privilege to be part of the project—reminding us that true greatness lies not in winning, but in sharing, respecting, and giving our best with humility and perseverance.
We believe that sport is a right. And we also believe it is one of the most powerful tools we have to build a more inclusive world—one where no one is left out because of their condition, and where everyone has the same opportunity to shine.