Game. Set. Match. Two of the world’s best athletes, footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and tennis star Rafael Nadal, come together in a new video from Nike to showcase the explosive speed and traction of the new Mercurial Vapor VIII launched on Saturday, March 24th in a game of tennis — or is it, soccer?
The action unfolds with Rafael Nadal intently practicing his serve on a grass tennis court, when the tranquil surroundings are interrupted by the roar of a sports car engine. Cristiano Ronaldo, complete with tennis gear, enters the club and strides on court to greet his friend who questions Ronaldo’s choice of footwear for a game of tennis – a new pair of Mercurial Vapor VIII boots.
We then see the tennis and football legends trade serves and kicks across the net with a tennis ball, at first for fun, then things get a little more competitive. Nadal thunders a serve cross court which is half volleyed straight back by Ronaldo and the game is on. A rapid succession of volleys (from racket and boot) ensue as the players conduct a rapid rally of headers, volleys, forehands and seamless traction and stability for Ronaldo thanks to his new mango Mercurials.
As each player dives and jumps to return the tennis ball, a football (soccer) suddenly appears, Nadal takes a turn to don the boots, and the fun and skills from both players is displayed across the net. As Ronaldo and Nadal shake hands at the net after a memorable game of foot tennis, Rafa playfully decides to hold on to the Mercurial Vapor VIII’s he’s worn for the football session, much to the frustration of Ronaldo.
Catch the premiere of the full video below and a fun clip of Nadal interviewing Ronaldo after their day of action.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Y_wJR1I-9s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=854ROqh9TJQ
About the shoe: The Mercurial Vapor VIII is designed to provide the world’s best players with a seamless fit, touch and traction that delivers explosive speed. A striking new design features a bright mango colorway with a new visual signature on the heel to help the boot stand out on pitch. Completely re-engineered to create a snug upper that locks down the foot and prevents unnecessary movement within the boots, Nike’s new Anatomic Last takes the fit of the boot to a new level of support and stability. This is enhanced by a more minimalist and softer heel area, maximizing both comfort and fit. The result is a boot that gives the world’s best players the performance they need.
Below are more photos from the video shoot, enjoy!
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(Special thanks to Nike Football for providing the videos and photos.)
