Meet Argentina’s Rafael Nadal and his twin brother Toni: A tennis tribute written in blood

Rafael Nadal is competing this week at the Rosario Open 02 on Argentina’s Pro Tour. But this isn’t the 22-time Grand Slam champion, who retired at the end of 2023 during the Davis Cup Finals. According to ESPN is a young Argentine player named in honour of the legendary Spaniard. Interestingly, he also has a brother named Antonio – or “Toni” – a tribute to the uncle and longtime coach of the former World No. 1.

This unique story takes place in Ricardone, a small town located just 31 kilometres from Rosario, where a tennis-obsessed family decided to pay tribute to the King of Clay by naming one of their sons after him.

And the story doesn’t stop there: Rafael isn’t an only child. He has a twin brother, also a tennis player, named Antonio – clearly inspired by “Uncle Toni,” the iconic coach and mentor who guided the real Rafael Nadal through much of his career. Both brothers are actively competing on Argentina’s national circuit.

In March 2025, the Nadal twins faced each other for the first time in an official match. It was during the second round of the Rosario Open 01 (part of the PRO Tour), where Rafael Nadal defeated his brother Antonio 6-3, 6-2. Both continue to gain experience at this level of competition.

So far, Rafael has played 97 matches on the PRO Tour, winning 51 and losing 46. Antonio has appeared in 95, securing 46 wins and 49 losses. Beyond the stats, the story of these Argentine twins stands out thanks to their connection with one of the most iconic names in tennis history.