The King of Clay, Rafael Nadal, has dominated the tennis courts for over 15 years, winning a record 22 Grand Slam singles titles. However, off the court, Rafa has embraced a new role – fatherhood. Together with his wife Maria Perello, the couple welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in October 2022.
For Rafa and Maria, the transition to parenthood has been a team effort. Though Rafa’s tennis career requires frequent travel and training, he and Maria ensure they equally share parenting duties. As Rafa said, “It is important to have the responsibility together.”
During tournaments, Maria often travels with the baby to support Rafa. She takes on the brunt of childcare, allowing Rafa to focus on his matches. But when he’s home, Rafa jumps into full dad mode – waking up for late night feedings, changing diapers, and pushing the stroller through Mallorca.
Rafa acknowledges this new role has brought him immense joy. “It’s difficult to describe, but at the same time it’s very simple: happiness.” For Maria, witnessing Rafa as a hands-on father has made her fall in love with him even more.
Though balancing parenthood and professional tennis is challenging, Rafa and Maria’s teamwork and commitment to their son shows they are champions both on and off the court. Their heartwarming story inspires us all to cherish the precious gift of family.
For Rafa, becoming a father has also given him a refreshed perspective on his tennis career. “It’s a different feeling when you wake up in the morning. It’s not just about me anymore, it’s about my wife and my son,” he shares. Rafa realizes he now plays for more than just himself or his passion for the sport. His family is his top priority.
In fact, Rafa admits contemplating retirement after winning the 2022 Australian Open, as he didn’t want to spend time away from his newborn son. However, with Maria’s full support, Rafa decided continuing his career – while balancing fatherhood – was best for the family.
“It is important for my son to see his father doing what makes him happy,” Rafa said. Maria agrees, knowing how much tennis means to Rafa. Though the effort to balance both requires sacrifice, Maria continues traveling to tournaments with their son to cheer on Rafa courtside.
For now, Rafa is cherishing this new experience of playing for his family while embracing fatherhood off the courts. With his wife Maria by his side, the legendary Spaniard has taken on this new role with his signature passion and dedication.
