Intro:

Rafael Nadal received the 'Gold Medal for Merit in Work' from the Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy at a ceremony in Madrid on Friday (1st May).

Script:

SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Rafael Nadal:

(on how it feels to receive the gold medal)

"For me it's a real honour to receive this award, which embodies the merits of work. Throughout my life, from when I was tiny, I have always put utmost dedication into whatever I do and try to give the maximum, which is undoubtedly one of the keys to the success of my career."

SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Rafael Nadal:

"I am very grateful. I hope that at this time most of the ups and downs with the work of each day you can regain stability and the path to victory. Thank you very much to all for coming."