Online poker operator PokerStars has signed up Spanish tennis icon Rafael Nadal as an ambassador for the brand as the company prepares to make its mark in the newly regulated online poker market in Spain.
Nadal becomes the fourth member of PokerStars’ Team SportStars, which the company acclaims as a “group of elite icons that have brought their competitive nature to the poker world.”
Other members currently include German tennis legend Boris Becker, Dutch field hockey Olympic gold medallist Fatima Moreira De Melo, and Swedish cross-country skiing Olympic gold medal winner Marcus Hellner.
“It’s no secret that I love to compete and try my very best in everything, whether that’s tennis, golf or video games,” said Rafa Nadal. “When I discovered the game of poker, I chose to join PokerStars because they understand what it takes to be the best and associate themselves with the qualities of champions. I’m very happy to be working with them.”
Nadal is an Olympic gold medallist and multiple Grand Slam tennis champion, and recently secured his eleventh grand slam title earlier this month with his seventh victory at the French Open.
PokerStars said that Nadal will play poker in spare moments this summer while he concentrates on his tennis. In the Autumn, he will be able to devote more time to poker and to representing PokerStars in online tournaments, in advertising campaigns and at charity events.
“Rafa Nadal represents all that is great about competition – the mix of talent, intellect, dedication and mental strength that you find in champions in every sport,” said Mark Scheinberg, PokerStars’ chairman of the board. “We are proud to have Rafa as an ambassador for the brand and excited at the opportunity to help him enjoy and improve his game.”
Nadal is expected to play a key role in introducing new players to the game of poker, particularly in Spain where PokerStars was recently granted licence approval (under Reel Spain plc) by Spain's General Directorate for the Regulation of Gambling.
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