Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has captured the hearts of millions with his extraordinary achievements on the court. However, behind the scenes, his personal life with his wife, Mery “Xisxa” Perelló, remains a story of its own. Despite being together for years, the couple maintains a low profile, keeping much of their romance private. Here’s a closer look at their relationship and Perelló’s life outside of being Nadal’s spouse.
Who is Mery “Xisxa” Perelló?
Mery “Xisxa” Perelló, also known as Maria Francisca Perelló, is from the same hometown as Rafael Nadal – Mallorca, the largest island of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Born on July 7, 1988, she pursued an undergraduate degree in business management from the University of the Balearic Islands and later attended ESADE, a prestigious graduate school in Barcelona, for further studies.
How Did Nadal and Perelló Meet?
Rafael Nadal and Mery Perelló’s paths crossed early in life, as both hail from Mallorca. Their relationship blossomed from friendship into a romance that has withstood the test of time. The couple dated for 14 years before getting engaged during a romantic holiday in Rome. The engagement was kept private, reflecting their preference for maintaining a low-profile relationship.
What Was Their Wedding Like?
Rafael Nadal and Mery Perelló tied the knot in October 2019 in Mallorca, surrounded by close friends and family. The wedding was a beautiful and intimate affair, with Perelló wearing a stunning gown designed by Rosa Clara, a Barcelona-based bridal designer. The long-sleeved gown featured a jeweled neckline and hand-embroidered fabric, epitomizing elegance and sophistication. The designer described the dress as having a “ballgown-style skirt, made of silk crepe, featured a weightless detachable train.”
How Do They Balance Public and Private Life?
Nadal and Perelló have always been protective of their personal lives. Despite Nadal’s fame and public exposure, they strive to maintain a sense of normalcy and privacy. In a press conference, Nadal explained, “I’m already exposed enough in my professional life. My loved ones and I like to live with a low profile.”
This approach is evident in Perelló’s limited presence at Nadal’s matches. While she supports him from afar, she rarely attends his tournaments. As she mentioned in an interview with The Telegraph in 2011, “He needs his space when he is competing, and just the idea of me hanging around and waiting on his needs all day tires me out. It would asphyxiate me. And then he would have to be worrying about me.”
How Did They Handle the News of Their First Child?
In June 2022, Rafael Nadal announced that he and Perelló were expecting their first child. The news was shared during a press conference in Mallorca. “If all goes well, I’m going to be a father,” Nadal revealed. Perelló, known for her private nature, did not publicly discuss her pregnancy. On October 8, 2022, the couple welcomed their baby boy in Mallorca, just weeks after Nadal’s emotional final match with Roger Federer.
What is Perelló’s Role in Nadal’s Foundation?
Mery Perelló has played a significant role in the Rafa Nadal Foundation since April 2012. Starting as a project manager, she advanced to the position of CEO in November 2019. She also serves as a secretary on the board of trustees. The foundation, launched in 2008 by Nadal and his mother, Ana Maria Parera, aims to help children experience the “transformative power of sport and education.” It operates both in Spain and India, focusing on providing opportunities for underprivileged youth.
What Makes Their Relationship Work?
The enduring relationship between Rafael Nadal and Mery Perelló is built on mutual respect and understanding. Their shared values and backgrounds, along with their commitment to privacy, have allowed them to maintain a strong bond over the years. Perelló’s independence and Nadal’s acknowledgment of her need for space have also been crucial. As Nadal once said, “I would love to have children: boys, girls … I’m a person who loves kids and I’m a family guy. But also I tell you that the reality is, the years keep passing, I would like to start to do all of this when my sporting life determines it.”
What Lies Ahead for the Couple?
As Rafael Nadal approaches the end of his illustrious tennis career, the couple is likely to focus more on their family life and philanthropic efforts. Nadal’s announcement that 2024 might be his last tennis season signals a new chapter for both him and Perelló. With their baby boy and a strong foundation built on love and respect, they are set to navigate the future together, both on and off the court.
In conclusion, Rafael Nadal and Mery “Xisxa” Perelló’s relationship is a testament to the strength of true partnership. Their story, marked by love, respect, and a shared commitment to privacy, continues to inspire many. As they move forward, their journey together promises to be as remarkable as Nadal’s tennis career.
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