Is Rafael Nadal left-handed or right-handed?

Rafael Nadal is left-handed in tennis. He serves and hits his forehand with his left hand, even though his two-handed backhand uses both hands.

That left-handed game was a major tactical advantage. Nadal’s forehand produced heavy topspin and was especially effective when directed toward a right-handed opponent’s one-handed backhand. His serve could also pull opponents wide to the ad court, opening space for his next forehand.

Nadal was naturally right-handed in some everyday activities, which has caused occasional confusion. His uncle and longtime coach, Toni Nadal, encouraged him to play tennis left-handed because it could create a useful competitive advantage. The switch became part of the unusual foundation of his technique.

Calling Nadal “ambidextrous” is not the standard answer to this quiz question. In tennis records, player biographies, and match descriptions, he is classified as a left-handed player with a two-handed backhand. His left-handed forehand and serve were central features of his style.