WATCH: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic hail Rafael Nadal for helping Majorca flood victims

The island of Majorca in Spain has been recently hit by flash floods that has already claimed the lives of 12 people. In a heart-warming gesture, tennis superstar Rafael Nadal has decided to help the flood victims in his native country.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion showed that apart from being one of the finest tennis players, he is also a humble human being after he opened the doors of his tennis academy in Majorca, for those victims seeking shelter in his hometown. The humble tennis star was also spotted assisting in the rescue operations on the island by wearing gloves and boots as he helped clean the floor of a warehouse.

The Spaniard's pictures immediately went viral with many lauding the gesture of the World Number one. The most prominent to come to the forefront were his on-court rivals and best friends, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

Federer and Djokovic, are both competing at the Shanghai Masters and will also be in quarterfinal action during the week. Ahead of their respective ties, the duo have shared their messages for Rafael Nadal, backing the Spaniard's 'super-inspiring' act, who is helping the residents of his hometown despite being sidelined with an injury.

“I know how important Mallorca is to Rafa and I have been in touch with him to see if I can help with anything,” Federer said in a video message recorded in Shanghai where he is currently competing.

“I have seen him helping in the village where he comes from and to see that is super inspiring. Rafa, you have our support.

Rafael Nadal was sidelined with a shoulder injury during the US Open semi-final clash with Juan Martin del Potro. The injury also forced him to withdraw from his country's Davis Cup tie. And, failure to speed-up his recovery meant he even missed this month's China Open. However, fellow-rival Novak Djokovic hailed the heroic efforts of his 'amigo', Rafael Nadal.

"A big hug and friendly regards to Rafa and well-done amigo for helping out," said Djokovic who is defending his title at the Shanghai Masters.

"I invite anyone to give their support in any way they can. Gracias."

In the latest ATP rankings, Rafael Nadal maintained his number spot, while he is followed by Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in second and third place respectively. While in the series chain of events, Rafael Nadal also agreed to play a match against Novak in December, after conveying the decision on Twitter. "Thanks for the invitation and looking forward to playing and visiting for the first time!"