Nike and its athletes have developed a reputation for iconic advertisements over the years. Rafael Nadal, one of the brand’s most recognised ambassadors, featured in a particularly memorable campaign in 2019. The clip, released in celebration of Nadal’s 12th Roland Garros title, starts with commentator John McEnroe introducing him to the world. He says: “And here is 16-year-old phenom, Rafael Nadal, waiting for the first serve.”

Nike's brilliant Rafael Nadal advert re-emerges online

The footage is from the youngster’s breakthrough match at the 2003 Hamburg Open where he defeated his current coach, Carlos Moya.

As the Spaniards trade blows on the clay, the opponent on the other side of the net changes, with Andre Agassi appearing on the American hard courts.

The rally progresses, following Nadal’s career, with the 14-time Roland Garros champion growing older and his adversaries taking it in turns to try to topple him.

PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 31: Rafael Nadal of Spain reacts against Novak Djokovic of Serbia during the Men's Singles Quarter Final match on Day 10 of The 2022 French Open at Roland Garros on May 31, 2022 in Paris, France. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Agassi becomes Juan Martin del Potro, who is then replaced by Grigor Dimitrov.

Sprinting for every ball, Nadal uses his grit and determination to keep the rally going, even retrieving a drop shot on the pristine turf of Wimbledon.

Such is the longevity of Rafa’s career, the new kids on the block Karen Khachanov, Frances Tiafoe and Borna Coric also make appearances.

The final play sees the 22-time grand slam champion getting lobbed on the famous Arthur Ashe Stadium court.

He sprints back, plays a tweener onto his opponent’s baseline, drops his racket, picks it up again and finishes the point with a volley at the net.

PARIS, FRANCE - JUNE 05: Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates with the trophy after winning against Casper Ruud of Norway during the Men's Singles Final match on Day 15 of The 2022 French Open at Roland Garros on June 05, 2022 in Paris, France. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images)

The crowd and his box leap to their feet and he acknowledges them with his trademark fist pump. The point encapsulates everything that Nadal is, a fighter.

Stunned, McEnroe exclaims: “Wow, this guy’s relentless. Unbelievable. Is he going to play every point like that?”

A stunning 92 global titles later, it’s fair to say he did.

Video: Nike's incredible Rafael Nadal advert goes viral online again

Rafael Nadal at Roger Federer's farewell

Nadal played a significant role in last week’s send-off for long-time friend Roger Federer. The Swiss played his final professional match on Friday, pairing up with Nadal for the evening’s double match.

Defeat to Team World’s pairing of Jack Sock and Tiafoe did not take the shine off the moment, as an emotional Federer gave a memorable speech to an adoring O2 Arena crowd.

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 23: Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal of Team Europe speak during the doubles match between Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe of Team World and Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal of Team Europe during Day One of the Laver Cup at The O2 Arena on September 23, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for Laver Cup)

Nadal was also visibly upset, with the sporting world treated to some wholesome photos of the pair sitting together on the players’ bench.

Both players have been a part of one of tennis’ most iconic eras, with Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray joining them to create what has come to be known as the Big Four.

They boast a mind-blowing 66 grand slam titles between them.