Rafael Nadal set to join Real Madrid's board

Real Madrid announced on Wednesday, November 4, that its board had approved a proposal to appoint Rafael Nadal as a new member of the club's Board of Directors. The appointment still needs final approval at an Extraordinary General Assembly on November 21. Nadal retired from professional tennis in November 2024 and is a longtime supporter of the club, which already lists him as an honorary member. Nadal said he had accepted the offer with enthusiasm and was keen to learn and contribute, and he thanked president Florentino Pérez for the invitation. The club praised his achievements and said his humility, competitiveness and determination reflected its own identity. The move has renewed talk about whether Nadal could one day succeed Pérez, who was re-elected to a four-year term in June 2026. Nadal has previously spoken about a possible future leadership role but has also played down such suggestions, and there is no indication he is being considered for the presidency. During his career he won 92 singles titles, including a record 14 French Open crowns, two Olympic gold medals and five Davis Cup titles with Spain.