Rafael Nadal to join Real Madrid board of directors

Tennis great Rafael Nadal is set to join the board of directors of Spanish football club Real Madrid, according to reports from Yahoo Sports, BBC Sport, and the Associated Press.

Nadal, who retired from professional tennis in 2024, won 22 Grand Slam titles, two Olympic gold medals, and helped Spain win five Davis Cups during his career.

Real Madrid's members will vote on Nadal's appointment at a meeting later this month. The club described him as one of the most admired Spanish athletes and expressed pride in his joining the board to contribute to the club's future.

Nadal, a lifelong Real Madrid fan and member number 67,778, shared a childhood photo of himself in a Real Madrid kit and expressed excitement and willingness to learn and contribute in his new role.

The specific responsibilities Nadal will hold on the board have not been disclosed. Real Madrid's president Florentino Pérez, who has led the club since 2009, proposed Nadal's appointment.

Nadal has remained active since retiring, traveling and participating in events, and his new role at Real Madrid adds to his post-tennis career activities.