Rafael Nadal and Ronaldo have a few things in common. In addition to being top players in their respective sports, they also have a passion for playing poker. Both are sponsored by PokerStars, and they will be taking part in a heads up tournament called The Duel in November. Nadal joined PokerStars in 2012, shortly after winning his 11th Grand Slam title.
He was sponsored by the online poker operator to play in a wide range of tournaments around the world. He has also appeared in a various campaigns and commercials for the brand. In addition to appearing in public for the brand, he has also taken part in a training program to help make him a great PokerStars player. His training has certainly paid off, as Nadal placed first in the €100 000 EPT Charity Challenge.
It was at this event that Nadal first faced off against Ronaldo. Nadal says: “It was my first live poker tournament when I last played against Ronaldo and one year later I’m more confident with my skill level. I really enjoy playing poker and the challenge of learning as quickly as possible, so I can’t wait to get back into training on my game and to play against Ronaldo.”
Ronaldo had joined team PokerStars earlier this year, and his poker skills made a lasting impression on Nadal. He represents PokerStars online and in live poker tournaments throughout Brazil. Now, he will be facing off against Nadal in a PokerStars-branded event on November 6, 2014. In preparation for the face off, Nadal will take on PokerStars plakyers in a six-max Zoom Poker session online.
The session will be streamed live on YouTube and on PokerStars.tv. Viewers will also be able to chat with the tennis star using the hashtag #AskRafa.