Not even an earthquake could stop defending U.S. Open Champion Rafael Nadal or his fans as he made his first appearance in New York to celebrate his appointment as Global Social Responsibility Ambassador for Bacardi Limited’s “Champions Drink Responsibly” campaign at Bar Basque on August 23.

Newly appointed Bacardi USA President Robert Furniss-Roe hosted an intimate reception for Nadal at the popular Spanish restaurant for Nadal to celebrate Bacardi’s latest corporate social responsibility initiative and give fans a chance to see the tennis superstar before he defends his title at the U.S. Open tournament next week.

Over 200 fans came out to support Nadal in the plaza at FoodParc as he spoke about responsible drinking and why he is so proud to be Bacardi Limited’s Champion and to impart this important message to his fans. Nadal said, “It’s important for everyone, especially young people like myself. I love to go out with my friends and have a good time but it is not necessary to drink all night,  it’s more important to come back home safely.”

Bacardi USA President Robert Furniss-Roe added that Nadal is the “perfect fit” for the campaign, “He is inspirational throughout the world,” Furniss-Roe says. “He immediately understood that this was a positive message.”

Following his remarks, Nadal lobbed signed tennis balls into the crowd at the FoodParc below and interacted with guests in a one-on-one photo session.  Guests sipped on inventive mocktails including Nadal’s signature “Rafa Berry Smash” and enjoyed Spanish tapas throughout the afternoon.

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