Shorts: Rafael Nadal, Chelsea, The RPA

Nike has honoured tennis icon’s Rafael Nadal’s retirement by releasing a new video, ‘One of the All-Time Tennis Greats’.

The new campaign has been revealed as Nadal competes in the Davis Cup finals in Malaga, which will be the final tournament of his career.

The Spaniard, who has been a Nike athlete since the age of 13, has won 22 Grand Slam titles over the course of his illustrious career.

Nadal’s iconic Raging Bull symbol, which has been central to his Nike signature collection has temporarily become Nike’s logo across all its social media platforms.

Throughout his 23-year career, Nadal has won nearly 1,100 singles matches, 92 titles, and 11 doubles titles.

Off the court, he has championed the Rafa Nadal Foundation, which empowers youth through sport, and the Rafa Nadal Academy, offering high-performance education both on and off the court.

Chelsea F.C. have launched a partnership with NAVER TV channel.

This new venture with South Korean digital platform Naver highlights Chelsea’s efforts to increase ‘its global reach by connecting fans worldwide.’

As per the agreement, Blues fans in Korea will now be able to watch match highlights and behind-the-scenes content on Naver Sports.

Phil Lynch, Chief Digital Officer at Chelsea Football Club, said, “We are delighted to introduce our Chelsea channel on Naver TV, which underscores our commitment to providing Korean fans exceptional access to exclusive club content. Our partnership with Naver’s cutting-edge platform allows us an extra avenue to offer unique content to connect more deeply with our passionate fans in South Korea – allowing them to get closer to the club and our players.”

The Rugby Players Association (RPA) has appointed Ruaridh McConnochie and Freddie Clarke as Chair and Vice Chair for the 2024/25 season.

Ruaridh McConnochie succeeds Ethan Waller, who recently retired from Northampton Saints. McConnochie, who remains the only English men’s player to have competed in both an Olympic Games and a Rugby World Cup, brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to prioritising players’ interests.

In addition, Gloucester Rugby’s Freddie Clarke has been elected as Vice-Chair of the RPA Players’ Board. Following Harry Elrington’s retirement, Clarke has stepped into the role of Gloucester’s representative. He was subsequently elected by the Board for this leadership position. Clarke brings extensive experience from the Premiership, Championship, and BUCS Leagues.

The 2024/25 season also welcomes new Board members, including Emmanuel Iyogun (Northampton Saints), Tom Emery, and Heather Cowell (GB7s), who are joining the Board for the first time. Long-standing player representatives Harry Wells (Leicester Tigers), Sarah Bern (Red Roses), and Max Lahiff (Bristol Bears) will remain on the Board for another term.

Christian Day, RPA General Secretary said, “The RPA exists to support, promote and protect players. With the players now holding seats on the new Professional Rugby Board, this engagement of our members is vital in ensuring that they are represented clearly and effectively whilst holding the games stakeholders to account on issues such as player welfare and wellbeing, all with the aim of making England the best place to play rugby.”

the London Broncos have extended their partnership with Saint Virgo Clothing.

Saint Virgo, the contemporary sportswear brand, has marked the second anniversary of its partnership with the Super League club with a renewal.

According to the Broncos, the collaboration ‘blends performance-driven sportswear with lifestyle appeal, enhancing the Saint Virgo brand.’

Craig Tullis, Founder & Director of Saint Virgo Clothing said, “We cater to individuals who value not just functionality in their sportswear, but also aspire to embody a lifestyle of confidence and sophistication.

“By aligning with the Broncos, we connect with a passionate fanbase that shares our vision—one that appreciates the blend of athleticism and luxury.”

London Marathon has partnered with Radox as the official bath and shower gel partner until 2026

The 45th edition of the TCS London Marathon will feature new partner Radox, a British heritage brand, to support participants throughout their training.

Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events, said, “Running a marathon takes courage, determination, and resilience. Radox is the perfect partner to support participants throughout their TCS London Marathon experience and we’re delighted to welcome Radox as our Official Bath & Shower Gel Partner for the next two years.”

London Marathon Events (LME) has also partnered with Brooks for a three-years deal to become the official running shoe and apparel partner for the Brighton marathon as well as the Brighton & Hove 10k.

Hugh Brasher added, “Brooks is one of the world’s longest established running specialist brands and we look forward to working together to provide a great experience for everyone at the event weekend.” 

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