On the eve of the Rio Open presented by Claro, Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer experienced what it is like to be part of one of the biggest spectacles on earth, the Rio Carnaval.
Not even the heavy rain that hit Rio de Janeiro on Sunday stopped the party plans of the top two seeds.
Along with former World No. 1 Gustavo Kuerten, Nadal and Ferrer made their debut at the Carnaval, officially opening the shows of the Special Group, with Unidos da Viradouro. Singing the “Samba Enredo – Veias do Brasil”, the Spaniards were all smiles and even tried to samba while cruising the Sambodromo. It was the first time both Nadal and Ferrer set foot on the famous Marques de Sapucai.
“It was the first time we had the chance to enjoy the Rio Carnaval and it has been an unforgettable experience,” said Nadal. “There was unbelievable positive energy [from] everyone. Everyone was singing and dancing; it was fantastic for me to have the chance to enjoy this unique experience.”
“It was really beautiful,” added Ferrer. “I had never been to the Rio Carnaval, or any Carnaval in Brazil, and the atmosphere was amazing. Everyone was so happy and dancing. Even with the rain, people really enjoyed their time here.
“I think I danced more today than I did in my entire life. I hope I can improve for next year. If I have the chance, I would love to do it again.”
Despite being more experienced in the “Carnaval Carioca”, Brazilian star Kuerten also enjoyed the special evening.
“They are turning into Brazilians,” he said. “It’s something very different from everything they had seen before. It’s an unforgettable moment.”
Nadal and Ferrer play their first round matches in Rio on Tuesday, opening against Brazilian Thomaz Bellucci and Daniel Gimeno-Traver, respectively.
(Courtesy and original Link: http://www.atpworldtour.com/News/Tennis/2015/02/6/Rio-Sunday-Nadal-Ferrer-Carnaval.aspx )
Topics: David Ferrer, Gustavo Kuerten, Rafa, Rio Carnaval, Rio De Janeiro, Tennis
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