On the surface, this photo shows tennis players Rafa Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz playing doubles at Rafa’s last Olympic Games in Paris.
Look closer, and there’s symmetry: the Spanish flags, the fiery red kits, the fist pumps, the wristbands, and the roars.
This photo symbolizes generational exchange and timeless passion, between Rafa, one of the greatest of all time, and Carlos, already his predecessor.
What about the photo’s differences? There’s Rafa’s golden trim, signature headband, and less full head of hair. Despite age, he’s as regal and powerful as ever.
He’s at the front of the frame, leading the way with wisdom and tenacity, even in the midst of exiting the sport.
Captured by Spanish photographer José Luis Pérez, this photo went viral as soon as it hit the Internet.
It foreshadowed the end of Rafa’s career and the passing of the torch to Carlos.
We liked it so much that it became the cover of our new issue.
And included more photos by José in the interior.
When you look at this photo, what do you see?
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