MALLORCA, SPAIN — Tennis legend Rafael Nadal and his wife, María Francisca "Mery" Perelló, have welcomed their second child, a healthy baby boy named Miquel Nadal Perelló, as confirmed by the couple’s representatives. The birth marks another joyous milestone for the Spanish sports icon, who has been balancing family life with his storied tennis career.
The couple, who married in October 2019, announced the pregnancy earlier this year, sparking excitement among Nadal’s global fanbase. Their first child, Rafael Nadal Perelló Jr., was born in October 2022. The name "Miquel" holds special significance in Mallorcan culture, paying homage to Nadal’s roots on the island where he was raised and continues to reside.
A Growing Family
Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, has often spoken about the profound impact fatherhood has had on his life. In a recent interview, he shared, "Becoming a father has been the greatest gift. It puts everything into perspective and gives me even more motivation to be the best version of myself." The tennis star has been increasingly open about prioritizing family, even as he continues to compete at the highest level.
The birth of Miquel comes during a pivotal year for Nadal, who has been working his way back from a hip injury that sidelined him for much of 2023. Despite the challenges, he has remained optimistic, often crediting his wife for her unwavering support. Perelló, a former insurance professional, has largely stayed out of the spotlight but is known to be Nadal’s rock behind the scenes.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The choice of "Miquel" reflects Nadal’s deep connection to Mallorca. The name is a Catalan variant of "Michael" and is widely used in the Balearic Islands. Family and tradition are central to Nadal’s identity, and the name honors his heritage while also standing on its own. Key details about the birth:
- Date of Birth: Early October 2024 (exact date kept private)
- Weight: 3.5 kilograms (7.7 pounds)
- Birthplace: A private hospital in Palma de Mallorca
- Sibling: Rafael Jr., now two years old
Nadal’s uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, expressed his delight at the news, telling Spanish media, "Rafa has always valued family above all else. Seeing him embrace fatherhood with such joy is a testament to the man he’s become. Miquel is a beautiful name, and we’re all thrilled to welcome him."
Balancing Tennis and Parenthood
Nadal’s return to tennis has been carefully managed, with his team emphasizing the importance of recovery and family time. In a social media post last month, he wrote, "Every moment with my son Rafael Jr. reminds me why I fight so hard to keep playing. Now, with Miquel joining us, I’m even more motivated to give my best—both on and off the court."
Fans have praised Nadal for his transparency about the challenges of balancing elite sports and fatherhood. His wife, Mery, has been instrumental in creating a stable home environment, allowing Nadal to focus on his comeback. The couple’s low-key lifestyle in Mallorca, away from the glitz of professional sports, has been key to their happiness.
What’s Next for Nadal?
With the birth of Miquel, Nadal’s immediate focus will likely shift to family, though he has hinted at a possible return to competition in early 2025. His team has confirmed that he will skip the remainder of the 2024 season to fully recover and spend time with his newborn. Nadal’s longtime rival and friend, Roger Federer, congratulated the couple, saying, "Rafa’s dedication to his family is as fierce as his forehand. Wishing them all the happiness with little Miquel."
A Legacy Beyond Tennis
While Nadal’s tennis achievements are unparalleled—including a record 14 French Open titles—his role as a father has added a new dimension to his legacy. In his autobiography, he reflected, "Trophies fade, but the love of family is forever. My children are my greatest victory." As Miquel begins his life in the Nadal-Perelló household, the tennis world celebrates alongside one of its most beloved champions.