Rafael Nadal Considers Future Role at Real Madrid After Retirement
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A potential new chapter for the tennis icon could see him involved with one of the world’s most iconic soccer clubs.
Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, has openly discussed the possibility of one day assuming a leadership role at Real Madrid, the famed Spanish soccer club he has supported since childhood. The conversation occurred during an interview with former Real Madrid coach Jorge Valdano in Madrid, sparking speculation about the tennis legend’s post-retirement ambitions.
A Lifelong Madridista
Nadal’s passion for Real Madrid is deeply rooted in his family history. He grew up following the team from his home in Mallorca, despite a familial connection to rival club FC Barcelona through his uncle, Miguel Ángel Nadal, who played for Barcelona between 1991 and 1999, making 268 appearances. “My father and the whole family have always been Real Madrid fans, although I had an uncle who played for FC Barcelona, and obviously everyone cheered him on, but then he returned to Mallorca, and since then we’ve been divided,” Nadal explained, as quoted by Halftime.
This lifelong fandom was formally recognized in 2011 when Nadal was granted honorary membership of Real Madrid – a privilege typically reserved for direct relatives of current members. The club further cemented its admiration for Nadal following his retirement from tennis in 2024, issuing a statement that hailed him as “one of the greatest legends in Spanish and world sport of all time.”
Presidential Ambitions?
When directly asked about potentially running for the presidency of Real Madrid, a position currently held by Florentino Pérez since 2009, Nadal offered a measured response. “Right now, they have the best man for the job,” he stated initially. However, he acknowledged the allure of the role, adding, “I don’t know… conceptually, it must be a beautiful position to have.”
Nadal emphasized the importance of timing, stating that any consideration would depend on his readiness. “If I were to consider it, I would have to do so when I’m ready, part of me would like to be in a position where I could consider it, but I don’t know.” This nuanced response leaves the door open to future possibilities, suggesting Nadal is not dismissing the idea outright.
Beyond Real Madrid: Support for RCD Mallorca
While a devoted supporter of Real Madrid, Nadal also demonstrates a commitment to his local team, RCD Mallorca. In 2010, he invested in the club during a period of financial difficulty, purchasing a 10% shareholding alongside his uncle. Though he sold his stake only 17 months later, according to Reuters, the gesture underscored his dedication to the local sporting community. Footage shared by the club even shows a three-year-old Nadal celebrating on the field in 1989 after RCD Mallorca’s promotion to the first division, carried by his uncle – a formative moment in his lifelong love of sport.
Nadal’s deep connection to both Real Madrid and RCD Mallorca highlights his multifaceted passion for soccer, raising the question of whether this passion will translate into a future leadership role within the sport.
