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Rafael Nadal is melting hearts around the tennis world again after a photo emerged of his incredible behind the scenes catch-up with the ball girl accidentally struck by a stray ball on Thursday night.

The Spanish champion showed his reputation as an athlete of absolute class runs right to his core when he produced a touching moment during the third set of his second round win over Federico Delbonis.

A blistering forehand from the Spaniard flew down the line and scarily crashed into the head of a ballgirl standing near the umpire’s chair.

2020 Australian Open R2 Rafael Nadal bt. Federico Delbonis  6-3 7-6(4) 6-1

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MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Rafa Nadal passed up a good few chances for an earlier finish to his night before muscling his way into the third round of the Australian Open with a commanding 6-3 7-6(4) 6-1 victory over Argentine Federico Delbonis on Thursday.

Photo: AFR

World No. 1 discusses life ahead of bid for 20th Grand Slam title

It's midday on Saturday and Rafael Nadal has plenty to keep him busy two days before the start of the Australian Open. For almost an hour, the Spaniard dedicates his time to his tournament press commitments and, when finished, he makes a beeline for Court 23 to take part in an event with the winners of the Rafa Nadal Tour, making use of a clinic his academy is giving.