Despite being just days away from attempting to defend his Indian Wells title, tennis superstar Rafael Nadal is enjoying some time off with his girlfriend in Mexico.
After winning the title in Rio de Janeiro, the world number one took a much-needed break before the Masters 1000 season.
Nadal showed he has many talents beyond tennis when he and his girlfriend, María Xisxa Parello, went kayaking and deep-sea diving.
In sync: The couple finds their rhythm in the deep blue sea as Nadal and María enjoy a relaxing break.
Taking it easy: Nadal takes a break and lets Maria take over and do the hard work
Let’s row! The couple stops rowing and lets themselves drift along peacefully for a while…
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The 27-year-old looked visibly uncomfortable as he tried to climb onto the back of an orange kayak.
With a huge smile on his face, Nadal showed off his muscular physique that we’re used to seeing him display in a tennis hall.
Speaking recently about Nadal and María’s relationship, their friend Pedro Hernández said: ‘Raf and Xisca are very shy and ordinary people who like to live simply.
“They’re not interested in celebrity life at all. They get together after the tournaments are over. That’s how Raf relaxes.”
A helping hand: Maria watches laughing as the boatman helps Rafael find his balance.
Beach bodies: Rafael and his girlfriend María showed off their slender figures while visiting the beach in Mexico
Fun on the high seas: The Spanish tennis star is preparing to take a dip in the Caribbean Sea.
The Spanish tennis player will be awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of the Balearic Islands in recognition of his sporting achievements and the values he has upheld throughout his career, the higher education institution announced.
Nadal, who was born and lives in Manacor, a town on the Balearic island of Mallorca, has demonstrated a commitment to excellence that makes him “one of the greatest athletes of all time,” the UIB said in a statement.
Nadal and his family have been contacted about the honor, the university said.
Timekeeping: Nadal appears to have forgotten where he left his watch after a deep-sea diving session.
Relaxing: Nadal takes a break from the intense activities he has spent the day enjoying
