By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has been appointed to Real Madrid’s board of directors, with the Spanish football club expressing pride in welcoming the 22-time Grand Slam champion into its leadership.

The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, as the club celebrated Nadal’s long-standing support for Real Madrid and his achievements in professional tennis.

The 40-year-old, who retired from professional tennis in 2024, is also an honorary member of the club. His appointment marks a new chapter in his relationship with the Spanish giants beyond his celebrated sporting career.

Nadal confirmed his acceptance of the position in a post on X, thanking Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez and the board for the opportunity.

“I want to thank president Florentino Perez and the board who proposed me to be part of the board of directors at Real Madrid,” he wrote.

“I accepted this proposal with great excitement, a desire to learn and contribute everything I can.”

Following the announcement, Nadal also shared a photograph of himself as a child wearing a Real Madrid jersey, reflecting his lifelong connection with the club.

Real Madrid praised the former world number one, describing him as one of the greatest sporting figures in history and one of Spain’s most recognised athletes internationally.

In a statement, the club said his appointment was a source of pride for both the institution and its supporters, adding that his experience and personal qualities would contribute to the club’s present and future.

The statement highlighted Nadal’s talent, determination, humility, competitive spirit, respect for opponents and commitment to helping others as qualities that reflect Real Madrid’s identity.

The club also noted that his influence extends beyond his achievements on the tennis court, describing him as a role model for millions of people around the world.

Nadal established himself as one of the most successful players in tennis history, winning 22 Grand Slam singles titles during his career. His achievements, particularly on clay courts, earned him a place among the sport’s all-time greats.

Although he stepped away from professional competition in 2024, his involvement in sport has continued to attract attention, especially because of his strong association with Real Madrid.

Earlier in 2026, Nadal dismissed reports suggesting he was considering a bid for the club’s presidency, describing the claims as untrue.

His latest appointment, however, places him in a formal leadership position within the organisation he has supported for much of his life.

The decision also highlights the club’s recognition of his sporting achievements and the values it believes he represents.

For Nadal, the new role offers an opportunity to contribute to Real Madrid in a different capacity after years of competing at the highest level of international tennis.

While details of his specific responsibilities on the board were not outlined in the announcement, the club expressed confidence that his experience, discipline and commitment would be valuable to its future.