Rafael Nadal, a tennis legend with 22 Grand Slam titles, has captivated the world with his extraordinary talent and tenacity on the court. But behind the scenes, there’s someone who has been his constant source of support and strength: his wife, Mery ‘Xisca’ Perelló. Though Mery keeps a low profile and avoids the spotlight, she has been a significant part of Nadal’s life for years. So, who is Mery Perelló, and how did their love story unfold? Here’s everything you need to know about Rafael Nadal’s wife.
Who Is Mery ‘Xisca’ Perelló?
Mery ‘Xisca’ Perelló, born María Francisca Perelló, is from Mallorca, Spain, just like Rafael Nadal. She was born on July 7, 1988, and has lived most of her life away from the limelight, despite being married to one of the biggest sports icons in the world. Mery holds a business administration degree and has built a successful career in her own right. She is currently the Project Director of Strategy and Relations with Institutions at the Rafa Nadal Foundation, Nadal’s charitable organization that focuses on education and sports programs for disadvantaged children.
Xisca’s preference for privacy has earned her a lot of respect, especially as she navigates life married to a globally recognized athlete. Unlike many other celebrity spouses, Mery has always kept a low-key presence, rarely appearing at public events or sharing details about her personal life with the media.
Mery and Rafael’s Love Story
Rafael Nadal and Mery Perelló’s relationship dates back to the early 2000s when they met through mutual friends in their hometown of Manacor, Mallorca. The two began dating around 2005, and since then, Mery has been a quiet but unwavering support system for Nadal throughout his illustrious career.
For many years, their relationship remained private, with only occasional glimpses of the couple in public or at Nadal’s matches. Both have expressed their desire to keep their personal life separate from the public eye, which is why they waited a long time before tying the knot.
Their Wedding in Mallorca
After over 14 years together, Rafael Nadal and Mery Perelló finally got married on October 19, 2019. The wedding was a private, star-studded affair held at La Fortaleza, a historic fortress in Mallorca, which provided an idyllic setting for their big day. The ceremony was attended by around 350 guests, including family, close friends, and a few famous faces like the former King of Spain, Juan Carlos I.
Mery reportedly wore a stunning gown designed by Rosa Clará, while Nadal kept his look classic and elegant. Despite their high-profile status, the couple managed to keep the wedding intimate and away from the media frenzy, maintaining their commitment to a private personal life.
Mery’s Role in Nadal’s Life and Career
Mery Perelló has been a pillar of support for Rafael Nadal throughout his career, although she rarely travels with him to tournaments. She has explained in interviews that her absence from many of his matches is intentional, as she believes it’s important to give Nadal space to focus on his career. Her understanding and independent approach have allowed their relationship to flourish without the pressures that often come with the life of a professional athlete.
While she may not be a constant fixture in the stands at Nadal’s matches, Mery’s presence behind the scenes is undeniable. In addition to her role at the Rafa Nadal Foundation, she also plays a crucial part in managing their private lives and maintaining their family values.
Life Beyond Tennis
Though Rafael Nadal’s career keeps him in the spotlight, Mery and Rafa have built a life together that balances the demands of professional tennis with a sense of normalcy. They both share a deep love for their homeland of Mallorca, where they spend most of their time when Nadal is not competing. The couple enjoys a relatively quiet life, away from the hustle and bustle of celebrity life, focusing on family, philanthropy, and their shared passions.
In 2022, the couple reached another exciting milestone with the birth of their first child, a son named Rafael Jr. The arrival of their baby boy marked a new chapter in their lives, with Nadal balancing his role as both a new father and a professional athlete.
Conclusion
Mery ‘Xisca’ Perelló may not be in the limelight like her famous husband, but she is an integral part of Rafael Nadal’s life. Their love story, built on mutual respect, support, and a shared sense of privacy, is a refreshing reminder that even global icons like Nadal can have a down-to-earth, loving relationship. As Nadal continues to dominate the tennis world, Mery remains his rock, providing stability and support both personally and professionally.
While the couple’s life together may be kept mostly private, it’s clear that Mery Perelló plays a vital role in Rafael Nadal’s success and happiness, making her a key figure behind one of tennis’s greatest players.