Rafa Nadal to Real Madrid? Uncle Toni hints at potential role

Rafael Nadal may quickly find a new role in sports following his retirement, potentially with Real Madrid, according to Toni Nadal. The 22-time Grand Slam champion ended his career two days ago when Spain was eliminated from the Davis Cup by the Netherlands.

The 38-year-old former player competed in the first singles match against Botic van de Zandschulp but lost in straight sets. Despite Carlos Alcaraz’s later victory over Tallon Griekspoor, the doubles defeat of Alcaraz/Granollers sealed the end of Nadal’s career.

Toni Nadal fuels speculation of Rafa joining Real Madrid

His uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, believes his nephew might take on a role connected to the football team Real Madrid, of which he is a devoted fan. “I imagine that if he is offered the position of director of Madrid, he would be delighted,” Toni said to Spanish outlet El Larguero.

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For the past two years, amid constant rumours of Nadal’s retirement, there has been talk of the former world No. 1 potentially becoming the team’s president after Florentino Pérez steps down. However, Toni suggests this role may not be the only possibility. “I haven’t said president. I think it’s because he is such a big fan of Real Madrid,” Toni clarified.

“I have experienced it with him in New York and Australia, during very important tournaments, waking up at odd hours to watch Real Madrid’s matches,” he added. “He loves sports, especially football, so I think he would enjoy being involved. But I’m speaking based solely on my intuition.”

Rafa Nadal against Van de Zandschulp

Still, Toni believes Nadal will take some time to relax before pursuing new ventures. “Now he will take it easy for a while, and then I’m certain he’ll get involved in sports in some way. I expect he’ll focus more on his academies, particularly the one in Manacor, as it’s something he’s passionate about,” Toni explained.

Rafa Nadal himself previously expressed interest in succeeding Florentino Pérez as president. “I think I’d like to. But there are many factors. Right now, there’s nothing to say because we have the best possible president,” he told Movistar a year ago.

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“What I think today, I might not think tomorrow. Life is full of twists and turns. You have to know if you’re qualified for such a role. I’m quite realistic—I know my limitations,” Nadal said. “I don’t know if I’d be capable. Time will tell. I haven’t discussed it with [Pérez]. I think the media gets ahead of itself. I don’t think I meet the requirements.”