Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has joined Real Madrid's Board of Directors, marking another significant chapter in his long-standing relationship with the Spanish football giants.

The former world Number one is a lifelong Real Madrid supporter and has maintained a close connection with the club over the years. The appointment was proposed by club president Florentino Pérez and approved by the board at its meeting on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.

However, it must still be ratified by Real Madrid's General Assembly of Representative Members on November 21. Nadal, who retired from professional tennis in November 2024, enjoyed a remarkable career, winning 22 Grand Slam titles, two Olympic gold medals and five Davis Cup titles with Spain.

Rafael Nadal reacted to his appointment by thanking Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez and the club's Board of Directors for the opportunity.

In a statement shared on social media, the 22-time Grand Slam champion said:

"I would like to thank President Florentino Pérez and the Board for inviting me to join the Board of Directors of Real Madrid. I have accepted this invitation with great enthusiasm, keen to learn and to contribute as much as I can."

Nadal expressed his excitement about the new responsibility and his desire to contribute to the future of the club he has supported throughout his life.

He thanked Pérez and the board, expressing his excitement about taking on the new responsibility and his willingness to contribute to the club's future.