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.
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.
“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.”
¡Festeja Nadal! 🥳🇪🇸 Rafa estuvo presente en la obtención de una nueva Champions League para el Real Madrid. 🏆 pic.twitter.com/BCUCvuWtb9
— ESPN Tenis (@ESPNtenis) May 28, 2022
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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