Tennis legend Rafael Nadal is set to join Real Madrid’s Board of Directors, with his appointment awaiting ratification by the club’s General Assembly of Delegated Members.
The Spanish football club confirmed on Wednesday that its board had agreed at a meeting on 4 November to put Nadal’s appointment to members for approval.
Nadal, a lifelong Real Madrid supporter and honorary member of the club, is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
His achievements include 22 Grand Slam singles titles, 92 ATP Tour singles titles, two Olympic gold medals and five Davis Cup victories with Spain. He also reached the world number one ranking.
In a statement, Real Madrid described Nadal’s potential appointment as a source of immense pride, highlighting not only his sporting achievements but also his humility, respect for opponents and commitment to charitable causes.
The club said these qualities reflected the values and identity of Real Madrid.
Nadal welcomed the invitation, thanking club president Florentino Pérez and the board for the opportunity.
“I have accepted this invitation with great enthusiasm, keen to learn and to contribute as much as I can,” he wrote on social media.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion retired from professional tennis in November 2024.
His appointment has also renewed speculation about his possible future involvement in the club’s leadership, with some previously viewing him as a potential successor to Pérez. However, Nadal has played down suggestions that he could eventually become club president.
Pérez, 79, secured another four-year term in June following Real Madrid’s first contested presidential election in 20 years.
More than a third of voting members backed challenger Enrique Riquelme, who opposed proposals to bring outside investment into the member-owned club.
Nadal’s proposed appointment marks a new chapter in his relationship with Real Madrid, this time beyond the sporting arena.