Rafael Nadal Joins Real Madrid Board of Directors

Real Madrid has appointed Rafael Nadal to its board of directors, the club announced Wednesday. The 22-time Grand Slam champion and lifelong Madrid supporter assumes an executive role with the organization.

The announcement follows Nadal’s public denial earlier in 2026 regarding speculation linking him to a potential presidential candidacy, which he dismissed as unfounded. Nadal, who retired from professional tennis in 2024, holds honorary membership with the club.

In a statement published on the club’s official website, Real Madrid celebrated the 40-year-old Spaniard’s arrival. “Rafael Nadal, an honorary member of Real Madrid, is one of the greatest legends in the history of sport and one of the most admired and recognized Spanish athletes in the world,” a club spokesperson said.

“For Real Madrid and all Madrid fans, it is a tremendous source of pride that a figure of his sporting and human stature—a benchmark of Spanish and global sport—will become part of our Board of Directors and contribute, from this position of responsibility, to the present and future of our club.”

“Rafael Nadal has forged a legendary sporting career. Yet his legacy extends far beyond his victories: his talent, relentless drive for improvement, capacity for sacrifice, competitiveness, humility, respect for rivals and teammates, and commitment to solidarity make him an exemplar both on and off the court. These values are intrinsic to Real Madrid’s identity, and Nadal has embodied and defended them throughout his career, becoming a role model for millions worldwide.”

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