Sports legend unrecognisable as THREE-YEAR-OLD celebrates with footballer uncle

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Viewers caught a glimpse of the future tennis star when he was picked up by his uncle during a TV interview
Viewers caught a glimpse of the future tennis star when he was picked up by his uncle during a TV interview

RAFAEL NADAL looked like butter wouldn't melt, when he was first seen by viewers on TV as a THREE-YEAR-OLD.

The tennis legend has gone on to be one of the greats of the game.

Rafael Nadal is held up in the air by his famous footballer uncle qhiqquiqkiqkkprw
Rafael Nadal is held up in the air by his famous footballer uncle
Miguel Angel Nadal was a centre back for Spain
Miguel Angel Nadal was a centre back for SpainCredit: Rex
Rafael Nadal has gone on to win 22 Grand Slam titles in a distinguished tennis career
Rafael Nadal has gone on to win 22 Grand Slam titles in a distinguished tennis careerCredit: Getty

But, when he was just a toddler, it was his uncle who was the sporting superstar.

Miguel Angel Nadal, famously referred to as the Beast of Barcelona in his hey day, was the football hardman of Spanish football.

And during an interview with Spanish TV while playing for Real Mallorca, he could be seen lifting his nephew in the air.

Rafael Nadal sends upbeat message amid worrying form ahead of Australian OpenRafael Nadal sends upbeat message amid worrying form ahead of Australian Open

No one could have known back then the young Rafa would go on to win 22 Grand Slams, as well as a record 14 French Open titles.

The clip has trended on social media since it was shared.

And fans have been quick to react to the video on X.

One wrote: "Think his nephew will turn out to be a fine tennis player."

A second shared: "Very cool. He grew up around professionals and greatness. Makes sense."

A third posted: "Oh my goodness this is precious!"

A fourth added: "Who knew that one day, that little boy would be far more famous than the beast of barcelona."

And a fifth opined: "Good genes really helps."

Before Rafa dominated tennis, uncle Miguel Angel was winning league championships with the Catalans.

He managed to lift LaLiga five times during a distinguished career..

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The centre back also added a European Cup to his honours in 1992, after the Spanish side beat Sampdoria 1-0 at Wembley Stadium.

Interestingly, Miguel Angel's brother Toni was once Rafa's coach.

Jon Boon

Rafael Nadal

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