A queen and her champion

Queen Sofia has been in New York over the last few days carrying out engagements and, like a true champion, that superstar of Spanish sport Rafael Nadal made it worth her while.  The Mallorcan grabbed his second US Open title in a four sets win over Novak Djokovic marking an epic comeback and sealing his place as a tennis legend.  And all in front of his queen.

 

 

Queen Sofia of Spain congratulates Rafa Nadal who won the US Open at Flushing Meadows

 

The Queen has a habit of popping backstage to see Spanish winners of major sporting events - her tour of the dressing room following Spain's World Cup win in 2010 is one of the best known.  Rafael Nadal is no stranger to royal support and famously climbed up into the royal box after winning Wimbledon to say hello to the Prince and Princess of Asturias who came to watch that victory.  He's also been seen out dining with King Juan Carlos and they juggled the Davis Cup between them after Spain's victory in 2011 in Seville.

 

 

Rafael Nadal and King Juan Carlos after Spain won the Davis Cup in 2011