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“Money will always speak louder”; “Disappointing” – Fans call out Rafael Nadal after announcement of new tennis center in Bahrain

Rafael Nadal's academy recently announced that they will be expanding their global operations in 2027 with the opening of a new tennis centre in Bahrain.

By Riddhi Acharya · Sportskeeda

Published: Friday, 16 October 2026 at 9:40 AM

Key Things to Know

Tennis fans criticized Rafael Nadal following an announcement of a new academy center opening in Bahrain in 2027.
Supporters expressed disappointment over doing business with a country accused of human rights restrictions.
The new facility will be located on the Amwaj Islands and developed in partnership with Harve.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Rafael Nadal's academy announced plans to expand its global operations in 2027 by opening a new tennis center in Bahrain. The decision drew significant backlash from tennis fans, who criticized the Spaniard for doing business with a nation facing scrutiny over human rights restrictions and regional armed conflicts.

The upcoming center will be situated on Bahrain's Amwaj Islands and developed alongside hospitality firm Harve, marking the academy's second Middle Eastern facility following Kuwait. The announcement follows the 10th anniversary celebration of Nadal's Manacor academy, which featured an exhibition match between Team Rafa and Team Murray alongside a concert by David Bisbal.

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