MANACOR — In a surprising and lighthearted revelation, tennis legend Rafael Nadal has playfully branded his longtime rival and friend Andy Murray an “a**hole” as the Spaniard opened up about his future beyond the court, including a potential career in professional golf and a more serious contemplation of one day becoming president of his beloved Real Madrid Football Club.
The candid moment occurred during a recent episode of the ‘Club de las Corbatas’ (The Necktie Club) podcast, where Nadal discussed a wide range of topics, from his enduring rivalries with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic to his post-retirement ambitions. It was during a discussion about his competitive nature that the 22-time Grand Slam champion shared the humorous anecdote involving the dour Scot.
A Rivalry Forged in Fire and Friendship
Nadal, Murray, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer formed the iconic ‘Big Four’ of tennis for over a decade, pushing each other to unprecedented heights. While Nadal’s epic battles with Federer are the stuff of legend, his matches against Murray were often brutal, physical affairs. Despite the fierce competition, a deep mutual respect and friendship blossomed between the two.
Nadal explained that their friendship is built on a foundation of brutal honesty and shared experience. "With Andy, I have a more daily relationship, a closer friendship. We understand each other. We have shared many moments of tension, of nerves, of important victories and painful defeats," Nadal said.
It is this unique bond that allows for such blunt, good-natured ribbing. Nadal recounted a story where Murray, known for his dry wit and often pessimistic on-court demeanor, gave him a particularly hard time. "He is a great person, with a special sense of humor. On the court, he has always been a rival who has made me give my best and suffer a lot."
The "A**hole" Comment and Competitive Spirit
The specific incident that prompted the good-natured insult stemmed from their shared passion for golf, a sport where Nadal is a highly skilled amateur and Murray is notoriously competitive. Nadal described a situation where Murray was being particularly difficult during a friendly round, showcasing the same relentless drive that made him a Wimbledon champion.
"On the golf course, he is a disaster. He is an a**hole, like me. We are both a**holes. We want to compete, we don't give anything away. It's true," Nadal confessed with a laugh, clarifying that the term was used affectionately to describe their mutual, unyielding will to win, even in a casual setting.
This competitive fire is something Nadal believes is essential at the highest level of sport. He contrasted the ‘Big Four’ with the younger generation, suggesting a difference in mentality. "The difference is that the new generation has not had to fight against rivals as strong as the ones we had. We have made each other better."
Life After Tennis: Golf and the Presidency of Real Madrid
With his playing career winding down due to persistent injuries, Nadal is increasingly looking toward the future. While he has previously expressed a desire to play on the ATP Champions Tour for veterans, his ambitions may extend to other sports and roles. His +1 handicap in golf has led to serious speculation about his potential in that arena.
However, a more significant and weighty potential future was also addressed: the presidency of Real Madrid CF. Nadal is a lifelong, fervent supporter of the club, and his global stature, business acumen, and leadership qualities make him a frequently mentioned candidate for the role in the distant future.
When asked directly about the possibility, Nadal did not dismiss it but emphasized the immense responsibility and his current focus. "It is not a decision that depends solely on me, nor is it a current issue. I am a devoted Madridista, and I will always contribute what I can to my club, but today it is not in my plans. It is a very important position that requires total dedication."
He outlined what he believes are the core requirements for such a prestigious job, highlighting that it transcends mere fandom. His comments suggest that while he may not be actively pursuing the role, he holds it in the highest regard and would not rule it out if the circumstances were right and he felt he could serve the club effectively.
The Legacy of the Big Four and Looking Ahead
Nadal’s reflections on his career and rivals are a testament to the unique era of men’s tennis he helped define. The respect between these champions is palpable, even when it’s expressed through humorous insults. His ability to joke about Murray being an “a**hole” on the golf course is a sign of a deep and enduring friendship forged in the crucible of elite competition.
As for what’s next, Nadal’s future seems open-ended. His immediate priorities remain his recovery and family. Beyond that, the world could see him:
- Competing on the professional golf circuit in senior events.
- Expanding his successful tennis academy in Mallorca and his charitable foundation.
- Taking on an ambassadorial role within the world of tennis or football.
- And perhaps, one day, answering the call to lead Real Madrid.
For now, fans can enjoy the candid and humorous insights from a champion beginning to look beyond the baseline. The image of Nadal and Murray, two of the greatest competitors in tennis history, fiercely arguing over a putt is a fitting next chapter for their legendary rivalry—one built on respect, shared struggle, and the freedom to call your friend an a**hole.