Real Madrid ratify Nadal appointment as director, adding Grand Slam champion
Real Madrid are set to add 22‑time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal to their Board of Directors, pending approval at the upcoming General Assembly of Delegated Members after a board agreement on Wednesday. The former world number one, who boasts 92 tour titles, two Olympic gold medals and five Davis Cup trophies, will join the European champions’ boardroom.
He is already an honorary member of the club. His transition into an executive role adds elite sporting pedigree to the European champions’ boardroom.
Statement highlights Nadal's credentials
In a formal statement, Real Madrid highlighted his legendary credentials, including 92 tour titles, two Olympic golds and five Davis Cup trophies, as well as his character. “It is a source of immense pride for Real Madrid and for all our supporters that a figure of his sporting and personal stature is to join our Board of Directors,” the statement read, adding that his humility, respect and charitable work perfectly embody the club’s core values.
Nadal expressed delight at the chance to work alongside long‑serving club president Florentino Pérez. “I would like to thank President Florentino Perez and the Board for inviting me to join the Board of Directors,” he wrote on X, adding “I have accepted this invitation with great enthusiasm, keen to learn and to contribute as much as I can.”
He officially retired from tennis in November 2024. Though frequently touted by fans and analysts as a potential future president of the club, Nadal has consistently played down those rumours. President Pérez, aged 79, recently secured another four‑year term at the helm.
The 40‑year‑old Mallorquiner is a lifelong Real Madrid fan. The board will put the proposal before the next General Assembly of Delegated Members. His acceptance was posted on the platform X with great enthusiasm.
Real Madrid described him as one of the greatest legends of sport history and among the most admired Spanish athletes worldwide.