Rafael Nadal has humorously confessed that his newfound obsession with golf is causing his wife to 'suffer' since he retired from professional tennis. The Spanish legend, who ended his illustrious 23-year career in November 2024 after winning 22 Grand Slam singles titles, has been dedicating increasing time to the greens and watching golf on television.
From Tennis Courts to Golf Courses
While Nadal was always an enthusiastic golfer during his tennis career, his retirement has allowed him to pursue this passion with renewed vigor. At 39 years old, he now fills his days with golfing activities that range from casual play to competitive amateur tournaments.
During a recent charity tournament in Madrid, Nadal revealed: 'I follow golf every week and my wife suffers because of it. I watched Jon Rahm play this week in Riyadh; he had a spectacular finish to the round and almost won. I generally enjoy following it.'
Charity Work and Professional Aspirations
Nadal recently presented his new charity golf circuit called Spin and Swing in Mallorca, with proceeds benefiting the Rafael Nadal Foundation. He emphasized that this project stems directly from his deep passion for golf, which has become a central focus in his post-tennis life.
The tennis icon has received multiple wildcard offers to participate in professional golf events over the years, but previously declined due to his tennis commitments. He explained: 'I've been offered an invitation several times but so far the circumstances haven't been right. You never know in the future but I would have to feel like I was playing without making a fool of myself and with the hope of at least being able to compete, even if it's just against myself.'
Competitive Success and Rivalries Renewed
Despite his modest assessment of his golfing abilities, Nadal has already achieved notable success in amateur competitions. In February 2024, he claimed victory at the Balearic Mid-Amateur Championship, winning by an impressive seven strokes against 74 competitors.
The transition from tennis rivalries to golfing camaraderie continues as well. In July 2025, Nadal enjoyed several rounds with his longtime tennis rival Roger Federer at the Pula Golf Resort in Mallorca. He hasn't dismissed the possibility of a 'Big Four' reunion on the fairways, noting that Andy Murray shares his enthusiasm for golf.
Nadal told The Telegraph in a previous interview: 'Yes, it could happen but they have to get training. I have a bit of an advantage in that. On the tennis court, there wasn't that much difference between us but in this I'm much better than them.'
A Growing Passion with Domestic Consequences
As Nadal trades one sporting passion for another, his wife Maria Francisca Perello continues to endure his golf obsession. The tennis legend's increasing dedication to the sport means more hours spent on courses and watching tournaments, creating what he jokingly describes as a source of frustration at home.
With Nadal's competitive spirit undiminished by retirement, golf appears to have become his primary athletic outlet. His journey from clay courts to golf greens represents a significant lifestyle shift, one that promises to keep him active in sports while testing his wife's patience with his latest sporting devotion.
