Six months after bidding farewell to professional tennis, Rafael Nadal is embracing a vibrant and multifaceted retirement. At 39, the former world No. 1 has seamlessly transitioned into roles as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, avid golfer, and devoted family man. His post-tennis life is a testament to his enduring passion, discipline, and commitment to excellence.
A Grand Farewell to the Courts
Nadal’s illustrious tennis career concluded in November 2024 during the Davis Cup quarterfinals in Andalusia, where Spain faced the Netherlands. With 22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Open victories, Nadal’s legacy is etched in the annals of tennis history. His retirement was met with heartfelt tributes from fans, fellow athletes, and the broader sports community, celebrating not just his achievements but also his humility and sportsmanship.
The tennis world held its breath as Nadal officially bid adieu to his professional career at the Davis Cup—an event that has always resonated with his deep patriotic spirit. Known for his fierce competitiveness and relentless drive, Nadal left the court with grace, his eyes misted with emotion and pride.
On May 25, 2025, Roland-Garros honored Nadal with an emotional farewell ceremony at Court Philippe-Chatrier. A crowd of 15,000 spectators gave him a standing ovation, chanting “Rafa” as he entered the court dressed in a dark suit instead of his trademark tennis attire. A highlight reel of his storied career played on the screen, capturing pivotal moments from his Grand Slam triumphs to his epic rivalries. Federer, Djokovic, and Murray stood by his side, paying tribute to an athlete who defined a generation.
“It has been a beautiful journey. I have always played with passion, for the love of the sport, for my family, and for my country,” Nadal said during his farewell speech. His voice, though steady, wavered at times, as he addressed the fans, organizers, and fellow players in French, English, and Spanish.
The Rafa Nadal Academy: Nurturing Future Champions
Retirement hasn’t distanced Nadal from tennis. Instead, it has deepened his role in shaping the next generation of players. The Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor, Mallorca, stands as a living legacy of his career. Founded in 2016, the academy blends world-class training with a holistic educational philosophy.
Spanning 18 acres, the academy boasts 45 tennis courts, advanced fitness centers, swimming pools, and an international school where students are trained in both academics and tennis. It reflects Nadal’s core values: discipline, respect, humility, and perseverance.
In early 2025, Nadal sold a 45% stake in the academy for €94.1 million to investors aligned with his vision. The funding will accelerate expansion projects, including new padel courts, additional residential spaces, and innovative sports science labs. Nadal’s interest in padel—a fast-growing racquet sport in Spain—is now integrated into the academy’s curriculum.
“It’s not just about building tennis champions,” Nadal noted in a recent interview. “It’s about shaping good people who are prepared for life beyond the court.”
The on-site Rafa Nadal Museum has also introduced a new exhibit showcasing his 14 Roland Garros titles. From match-worn gear to trophies and personal anecdotes, the collection offers fans an intimate look into the grit and glory of his clay-court dominance.
ZEL Hotels: A Mediterranean Hospitality Venture
Nadal’s competitive edge and passion for excellence have also found expression in the business world. In 2023, he co-founded ZEL Hotels with Meliá Hotels International, aiming to capture the essence of Mediterranean living through hospitality.
The flagship property, ZEL Mallorca, merges modern architecture with coastal charm. Guests are welcomed with open-air lounges, locally sourced cuisine, and lifestyle amenities including yoga sessions, curated cycling routes, and beach clubs. Technology and tradition blend seamlessly—check-ins are digital, but the vibe remains warmly personal.
The ZEL brand is more than just another hotel chain; it’s a lifestyle statement. With successful expansions to Costa Brava and Punta Cana, ZEL Hotels plans to open 20 more properties globally by 2030. Each location is envisioned as a vibrant community hub, celebrating wellness, gastronomy, culture, and local connections.
“ZEL represents a way of living that I value deeply—one that embraces nature, health, and human connection,” Nadal explained during the Punta Cana opening ceremony.
Golf: A New Competitive Arena
Though Nadal has laid down his tennis racquet, he hasn’t abandoned competition. Golf, a lifelong passion of his, has taken center stage in his athletic life. Known for his mental toughness and attention to detail, Nadal has embraced golf with the same intensity that defined his tennis career.
He frequently competes in regional tournaments in Spain and recently made headlines with an invitation to Augusta National Golf Club. Despite being new to elite golf, Nadal impressed spectators with a score of 80 over seven kilometers—a testament to his athletic versatility.
“Golf challenges me differently,” Nadal shared. “It’s about precision, patience, and staying calm under pressure—all qualities I learned from tennis.”
Philanthropy and the Rafa Nadal Foundation
Philanthropy remains a cornerstone of Nadal’s identity. Established in 2008, the Rafa Nadal Foundation works to provide education and social opportunities to underprivileged children in Spain and India. Programs like the Rafa Nadal Foundation Center in Palma and the Anantapur Sports Village in India are making measurable impacts in their communities.
Maria Perelló, Nadal’s wife and the foundation’s director, plays an instrumental role in its strategic planning and day-to-day operations. Together, they have expanded outreach to more than 2,000 children annually.
“Helping others is a responsibility we all share,” Nadal once said. “Success is not only measured by titles but by the lives you uplift.”
Personal Life: Family and Future Aspirations
Life off the court has offered Nadal the rare luxury of time—time with family, with nature, and with himself. He resides in his hometown of Mallorca with Maria and their son, Rafa Jr., who recently turned two. The couple is now expecting their second child, deepening their roots in the quiet joys of domestic life.
When not engaged in business or sport, Nadal escapes to the sea. He’s an avid sailor and fisherman, often navigating the Balearic coast aboard his yacht, “Great White.” It’s in these moments, far from the limelight, that Nadal finds peace.
He remains an ardent supporter of Real Madrid and has openly expressed interest in taking on a leadership role within the football club in the future. While acknowledging the complexity of such a position, Nadal says it’s a dream he may one day pursue.
“I love football. I love Real Madrid. If someday the opportunity comes and I feel prepared, why not?” he shared in a recent press conference.
Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond Tennis
Rafael Nadal’s life after tennis paints a portrait of an individual who continues to strive for impact and excellence beyond the game. Whether it’s nurturing future athletes, building global businesses, championing education, or simply being a present father and husband, Nadal’s post-retirement journey is as inspiring as his career on the court.
For athletes considering life after the final whistle or last match point, Nadal’s transition offers a compelling example: one can retire from a sport, but not from purpose. As he charts this next chapter, the world watches with admiration and anticipation, knowing that whatever Rafael Nadal pursues, he will do so with heart, humility, and the fierce spirit that made him a legend.