Rafael Nadal has stepped away from tennis, but his life is still full, just in a very different way now. The former world No. 1 recently took a short family break with his wife, Mery Perelló, and their two children. This trip came right before Easter, and for Nadal, it was all about slowing down and spending real time with the people closest to him. He shared moments from the trip himself and wrote, “Recently, I spent very special days with my family in the Exumas. A unique place, full of beautiful nature. We are very lucky to enjoy places like this, and it reminds us how important it is to protect them for the future. Always grateful for these moments with my family!”
The vacation was not just a small outing. Along with Nadal, his wife, and kids, his parents, his sister Maribel, and other close family members were also there. It turned into a full family gathering, something Nadal has always valued deeply. His children are still very young, but they are already a big part of his daily life. His first son, Rafa, was born in October 2022 and was seen with him during the last phase of his tennis career. His second son, Miquel, was born in August 2024, after Nadal officially retired from professional tennis.
Rafael Nadal shares family time in the Exumas as he balances life after tennis with Mery Perelló and their children
The family chose the Exumas in the Bahamas for their getaway. This place is known for its clear blue water, quiet beaches, and private islands. It is one of the most exclusive travel spots in the world and has also been used in films like Pirates of the Caribbean and Casino Royale. For Nadal, it was the perfect place to relax away from the public eye.
Now that he is no longer playing competitive tennis, Nadal’s daily life looks very different. He wakes up early, spends time with his kids, helps with school routines, and enjoys simple moments at home. At the same time, he still stays connected to sports. He plays golf a few times a week and also looks after his academy and foundation.
Family has always been at the center of Nadal’s journey. He has said before, “Nothing I am today could have been built without the pillars that support me and have helped me grow.” That support system was clearly around him during this trip as well.
Just days before this vacation, Nadal also received an honorary doctorate from the Technical University of Madrid. During his speech, he spoke about his uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal. He said, “From my uncle, I learned that hard work, discipline, and humility are just as important as talent. Talent matters, but it is never enough on its own. Behind every achievement, there is always a long process of preparation, analysis, constant work, and continuous improvement.” Even after leaving tennis, Nadal’s focus on family, discipline, and simple living remains strong.
Stay updated with the latest
IPL news on
Times of India. Follow the
IPL Schedule, check the
IPL Points Table, and track the race for the
IPL Orange Cap and
IPL Purple Cap.
Sehjal Gupta is a sports journalist covering US and international...
Read MoreSehjal Gupta is a sports journalist covering US and international sports, with a specialization in the NFL. She has been writing about sports since 2025, reporting on leagues, tournaments, and athletes who shape the game. A Master’s in Management adds depth to her analysis, while her love for Hollywood movies and pop culture sparks her storytelling voice, a flair that also shapes her entertainment writing, giving it the same energy and creativity she brings to sports.
Read Less
Start a Conversation
Post comment