Inspired by Nadal, Spanish wheelchair tennis player Dani Caverzaschi aims for gold at Paris 2024
Spanish wheelchair tennis star Dani Caverzaschi has his sights set on emulating his idol, Rafael Nadal, as he prepares for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. With the iconic Roland Garros as the backdrop, Caverzaschi is determined to write his own chapter of success in the city that has witnessed countless Spanish triumphs.
Caverzaschi, a three-time Paralympian, is no stranger to the prestigious venue. He understands the significance of playing at the home of the French Open, a tournament Nadal has conquered an astounding 14 times. As Caverzaschi returns to the courts after a challenging injury layoff, he draws inspiration from Nadal and other Spanish champions who have graced the clay of Roland Garros.
“Roland Garros is iconic for Spanish players,” Caverzaschi remarked, acknowledging the rich history of his country’s tennis heroes. He added, “Rafa has been my main role model in sports… I feel I can beat anyone. I need to manage expectations, ideally, the Games would be next year. I want to continue this way, if I play well I can do great things. Why not dream big? I hope for a medal in singles or doubles.”
Caverzaschi’s journey to Paris 2024 has been a testament to his resilience and determination. After a year and a half away from the courts due to injury, he has made a remarkable comeback, feeling stronger and more confident in his abilities. He credits the familiar clay courts for his comfort and confidence, a surface that Spanish players are accustomed to from an early age.
The influence of Nadal and other Spanish champions like Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Alcaraz runs deep in Caverzaschi’s game. He believes that the way tennis is taught in Spain, with a focus on clay courts, maximizes the potential of Spanish players on this surface. “Clay suits a style that is grittier and more physical,” Caverzaschi explained, “it suits intense players who like to grind from the baseline.”
As Caverzaschi prepares for his fourth Paralympic Games, he also advocates for greater recognition of wheelchair tennis and the Paralympic movement. He has co-founded a marketing company specializing in adapted sports, aiming to educate and change perceptions. He reflected on the London 2012 Paralympics as a pivotal moment, stating, “Perceptions changed there; disability was completely normalised after the Games… There is an evolution, for sure, but still a way to go.”
With Paris 2024 on the horizon, Caverzaschi is taking a philosophical approach, embracing the inspiration that surrounds him while managing his expectations. He is eager to represent Spain proudly and leave his mark on the Paralympic stage, adding to the legacy of Spanish tennis champions who found glory in the City of Light.
As Caverzaschi chases his Paralympic dream, he carries the hopes of a nation that thrives on clay, embodying the grit and determination that have become synonymous with Spanish tennis excellence.
