Rafael Nadal receives Spain’s Olympic flag

The last time Rafael Nadal carried Spain’s flag in the opening ceremonies of an Olympic Games, he went on to win the gold medal in singles.

That was four years ago in Beijing.

‘I want to thank all the federations that have given me this opportunity,” Nadal said at a press conference today. “The Games are the most important sporting event in the world, for any athlete it means reaching your goal.”

Although Nadal had won all of his sport’s major titles, including seven French Opens and two Wimbledons, it’s clear his Olympics experience ranks high: “In Beijing 2008, when I lived in the Village with everybody, I discovered what the Olympic spirit is all about. I think it was the best experience I’ve had in my career.