Next Sunday, May 25, 2025, will be a special day in Paris. For the first time since his career began, Rafael Nadal will not be competing in Roland Garros. The king of clay retired last year, after a legendary career with 14 titles in this tournament.
In a recent interview with L'Equipe, Nadal opened his heart about his retirement and the family life he has built since then. At 38 years old, he is living a different stage, dedicated mainly to his family and his role as a father. This change has been decisive for him.
Rafa Nadal wants to be able to go back
The tennis player confessed that, if he could go back, he should have retired right after Roland Garros 2022. However, he recalled that that year he was at the top. He had won two Grand Slams and was fighting to be number one in the world. "Why would I have retired?" he asked himself.
This reflection opens a window on how his family life would have changed if he had stopped three years ago. Nadal has now made family his absolute priority. His wife, Xisca Perelló, has been an essential pillar during this process, although she always kept a low profile.
"I'm enjoying family life," Nadal said. "I try to do things that entertain and motivate me. I'm delighted and happy," he added. The former tennis player spends more time with his children and takes the opportunity to live everyday moments that he couldn't before.
For Rafa, being a father changed his view of the world. His schedule is no longer dominated by training or tournaments. Instead, home and stability take center stage. "I'm happy in this new stage," he explained.
Since his retirement, Nadal has also been involved in the academy he runs. This project excites him and allows him to stay connected with tennis, although from another role. Additionally, he enjoys watching snippets of matches, although he no longer feels the need to compete.
Xisca, although always discreet, has been a great support. Nadal acknowledges that she prioritized family well-being and encouraged him to make the best decision. Together they have formed a united and stable home, which the athlete values greatly.
"My family is my greatest pride," Nadal stated. The transition from active life to family life has not been easy, but it has been necessary. Now he enjoys the routine that was previously impossible for him.
Retirement has not caused nostalgia in him. "I don't miss playing. I felt there wasn't much left to do in my career," he confessed. Rafa looks forward, happy to live this stage as a present husband and father.
This confession shows another side of Nadal. Beyond the athlete, there is the man who values his family above all else. What Xisca kept silent is now better understood: family was always the refuge.