Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest tennis players in history, officially concluded his professional tennis career on November 19, 2024, during the 2024 Davis Cup in Malaga, Spain.
At the farewell presentation, Nadal shared his humble perspective on how he wishes to be remembered:
“The titles and numbers are there so people probably know that, but the way I would like to be remembered is being a good person from a small village in Mallorca where I had the luck to have my uncle as a tennis coach.”
Via ESPN
This moment marked the end of an illustrious journey that spanned more than two decades and cemented Nadal as a tennis icon.
Nadal’s career was nothing short of extraordinary.
He began his professional journey at the age of 15 and went on to win 22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Open victories.
His relentless determination, iconic left-handed topspin forehand, and unmatched athleticism made him a formidable opponent on any surface.
Over the years, Nadal secured 92 ATP titles and played with unwavering passion, earning 1,080 match wins.
Known as “Rafa,” he became synonymous with resilience, overcoming injuries time and again to reclaim his place among the sport’s elite.
His rivalry with legends like Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic defined an era in tennis, captivating fans worldwide.
However, beyond the titles and accolades, Nadal’s humility and sportsmanship set him apart, making him a role model both on and off the court.
Rafael Nadal’s Wife, Maria Francisca Perelló, Is His Constant Support
Off the court, Nadal’s life is anchored by his family, particularly his wife, Maria Francisca Perelló, affectionately known as Mery.
The couple’s love story began in their teenage years, and after dating for 14 years, they tied the knot in October 2019 in a picturesque ceremony in Mallorca, Spain, Nadal’s hometown.
In October 2022, Nadal and Perelló welcomed their first child, Rafa Junior, adding a new dimension to their lives.
Perelló and Rafa Jr. are often seen cheering Nadal on during matches and practice sessions, providing emotional support that has been invaluable to his career.
Their presence highlights the importance of family in Nadal’s life, grounding him through the highs and lows of professional sports.
Additionally, Nadal often speaks about the importance of family, attributing much of his personal and professional success to their unwavering support.
In an emotional video announcing his retirement, Nadal addressed his wife, Maria Francisca Perelló, and his son, Rafa Jr., with heartfelt words:
“Mery, we have been together for 19 years. Thank you for everything you have done. I think you’ve been the perfect travel companion during all these years of my career. To come home and see how my son is growing every day has been a force that has really kept me alive and with the necessary energy to continue.”
Via X (Formerly Twitter)
As Nadal transitions away from competitive tennis, his legacy remains unparalleled.
Known not just for his triumphs but also for his grace, sportsmanship, and humanity, Nadal’s retirement marks the conclusion of a historic chapter in tennis.
With Mery and Rafa Jr. by his side, Nadal looks forward to a new chapter, one where family takes center stage.
His farewell is a testament to the power of love, support, and perseverance in achieving greatness.
Maria Francisca Perelló Is Leading the Legacy of Tennis Champion Rafael Nadal
Beyond the tennis courts where her husband Rafael Nadal has earned his legendary status, Maria Francisca Perelló has carved out her own impressive career path in philanthropy and social impact.
As the Managing Director of the Rafa Nadal Foundation, she plays a pivotal role in extending the tennis champion’s influence far beyond sports.
Known affectionately as “Xisca” to those close to her, Perelló’s professional trajectory reflects a dedicated commitment to social causes and organizational leadership.
A graduate of Business Administration and Management from the University of the Balearic Islands, she has systematically built her expertise in nonprofit management and social impact initiatives.
Her career began with roles in the corporate sector, including positions at MAPFRE ASSISTANCE in London and IMG in Barcelona, where she gained valuable experience in business development and sporting event organization.
However, it was her transition to the Rafa Nadal Foundation in 2012 that marked the beginning of her most significant professional chapter.
Initially joining as Project Director, Perelló spent seven years overseeing the foundation’s social integration projects across Spain and India.
Her dedication and strategic vision led to her promotion to Managing Director in November 2019, a position she continues to hold today.
Under her leadership, the foundation has strengthened its mission of supporting children and young people through education and sports.
Her commitment to excellence in nonprofit management is evidenced by her pursuit of additional education, completing a Postgraduate degree in NGO Management and Direction from ESADE in 2015.
This academic enhancement has further equipped her to guide the foundation’s strategic initiatives and maximize its social impact.
In her role as Managing Director, Perelló oversees various programs that combine education and sports to create opportunities for vulnerable youth.
Her work has been instrumental in expanding the foundation’s reach and implementing sustainable programs that reflect both her business acumen and social consciousness.
Perelló’s leadership style combines professional discretion with effective management, maintaining a low public profile while successfully directing one of Spain’s prominent charitable foundations.
Her work embodies the foundation’s mission of transforming lives through education and sport, carrying forward the values that have defined both her and her husband’s contributions to society.
Through her position at the Rafa Nadal Foundation, Perelló has demonstrated that behind every great athlete can be an equally accomplished professional, working diligently to create positive social change and build lasting impact in communities around the world.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Nadal was born on June 3, 1968.
- He has a younger sister named Maria Isabel.
- His parents divorced in June 2009.
