Ruya
Ruya - A Chinese word that describes the ancient scholar's wise, modest, and self-cultivating nature. It is also used to describe Chinese generals holding those same traits while defeating their enemies with ease.
Ruya and Rafa
In popular culture, Ruya is first used to describe tennis star Rafael Nadal on the Baidu Rafa Post Bar (rafa Bar of Baidu Tieba). The post pointed out that Nadal never curses against his opponent; instead, he always gives credit to them. He never abuses his racquet. He never gives up. He uses all means possible to achieve victory. These are traits fit perfectly with the word "Ruya".[1] With the close resemblance of the pronunciation of Ruya and Rafa, many message board posters start to use Ruya as Nadal's new nickname.
The phenomenon of Ruya
The phenomenon of spreading Ruya continues through the Chinese sporting world. There, besides Rafael Nadal, are other tennis players considered as Ruya, including Australian Bernard Tomic and former WTA World No.1 Victoria Azarenka. Today, the word generally describes individuals with conflicting sides of being modest in the public but using all means to self-serve in nature.