Close-up photo montage of Xisca Perelló and Rafa Nadal, both with smiling faces.

Rafa Nadal, 39: 'My wife (Xisca Perelló) likes us to have...'

Tennis player Rafa Nadal talks about his family, his future in tennis, and how fatherhood has changed his life

Rafa Nadal, the greatest Spanish tennis player of all time, is going through a stage full of changes and emotions. At 39 years old and after his retirement, the athlete reflects on his future, his family, and his role as a father. In his latest interview with Ana Pastor, Nadal opened the doors to his personal and professional life, showing a little-known and very human side.

Rafa was not only facing the physical wear and tear typical of his career at that time, but he also discovered how fatherhood transforms his daily life. This new life experience has taught him to balance athletic effort with family moments, although he still keeps certain secrets about how all this has really changed his life.

Rafa Nadal concentrated playing a tennis match
Nadal's daily routine now revolves around his son | Europa Press

Rafa Nadal, father and athlete

Rafa Nadal has always shown his passion for sports, but since the arrival of his son, he has experienced a deep transformation. Fatherhood has meant a radical change for him that has not only affected him personally.

Although his athletic career was his priority, Nadal acknowledged that his life revolves around his family and the little details that only a father can understand. He stated that he really enjoys routines with his son, such as having breakfast together, and he values every moment they share.

The tennis player has also learned to adapt and manage the demands of sports and parenting. This is no easy task, and it has made him more aware of the value of time and mutual support within the home.

Rafa Nadal, wearing a navy blue jersey, smiles during an interview in a television studio. Screenshot from 'El Objetivo'
Xisca Perelló is key for Rafa Nadal | Atresmedia

Nadal highlights the unconditional support of his wife, Xisca

In his interview with Ana Pastor, Rafa Nadal shared how the presence of his wife, Xisca Perelló, is key to his personal and professional balance. Since they became parents, the tennis player recognizes even more the firm and constant support of his partner. "My wife likes me to keep playing tennis, she likes us to have that experience with my son," he stated naturally.

Regarding his son's future, Nadal admitted that he would prefer him to be interested in another sport, although he will not impose any decision. His priority is for the little one to grow up free, happy, and without external conditioning. If he chooses tennis, he assured, he will have all his support and understanding.

Becoming a father has changed his life perspective, giving him new priorities and meaning to his routine. Nadal considers it essential to build a home based on respect, stability, and mutual support. His commitment now goes beyond the courts: it is also to his emotional well-being and that of his family.

Man wearing a cap and an orange t-jersey sitting at a tennis press conference
Rafa Nadal was aware of his body's limitations | Europa Press

Rafa Nadal's look to the future

Nadal did not hide that retirement was getting closer and closer. Aware of his body's limitations, the tennis player was realistic but optimistic. He knew that every step forward was a gift, and that enjoying the present was essential.

His goal was to return to the courts in March, at the Indian Wells tournament. Although he acknowledged that the end of his athletic career was approaching, he was not worried about losing fame or success, but about keeping a normal life with his family and friends.

Becoming a father has radically changed Rafa Nadal's life, but it has also strengthened his fighting spirit. While he strives to be a good father, he finds in his wife and son the motivation to keep moving forward. The tennis player was sincere about his future, aware that life offers many forms of success and happiness beyond competition.