Rafael Nadal invites first legend to play with him in ‘Rafael Nadal Academy Slam’

Rafael Nadal is picking up a tennis racquet, training, and preparing for his upcoming "Rafael Nadal Academy Slam." This exhibition is part of the RNA 10th anniversary celebration.

Not much is known about the October 3 exhibition which will be televised in Spain on Movistar Plus.

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The website has promised that details will be released closer to the event date. On September 23, Rafa shared video of a phone message he left with Andy Murray asking him to play. Murray was coaching Jack Draper who recently shut it down for the season so aside from golfing, he is available.

MORE: Rafael Nadal is training for top-secret 'Rafa Nadal Academy Slam'

Team Rafa vs. Team Murray

Andy Murray reacts during his loss to Jack Draper during the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif., on Monday, March 13, 2023. Bnp Paribas 2023 Jack Draper Vs Andy Murray5504

We know that Rafa and Murray will be the team captains. Both will be playing captains. Each will have three additional players on his team.

📞 Hi, @andy_murray…

See you on October 3rd at the @rnadalacademy! pic.twitter.com/Uw6F7Kz06U

— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 23, 2026

As has been the case since this event was introduced, there is plenty of speculation about who else will play.

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MORE: On his 40th birthday, Rafael Nadal still looms large at Roland Garros

Will Roger Federer play?

It seems almost certain that Federer will be invited. He will be on Rafa's team. Rafa could also call fellow Spanish legends, Juan Carlos Ferrero and his former coach Carlos Moya whom he recently wished a Happy 50th birthday to on social media.

Who will be on Murray's team?

There are some outstanding retired players to choose from who could play on Murray's team including Juan Martin del Potro, and Jo Wilfried-Tsonga.

Will women be involved?

If mixed doubles are part of the exhibition. Garbine Muguruza is a Spanish player who could team up with Nadal.

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