Tennis legend Rafael Nadal, who recently announced that 2024 will likely be his last tennis season, might be one of the sport’s most decorated athletes. But despite the Grand Slam champion’s widespread recognition, little is known about his wife Mery “Xisxa” Perelló.
The couple dated for 14 years before tying the knot in October 2019, and have remained relatively quiet about their romance. In June 2022, Nadal confirmed during a press conference that he and Perelló were expecting their first child. The tennis star also explained to reporters why he tends to avoid talking about his personal life.
“I’m already exposed enough in my professional life,” he said. “My loved ones and I like to live with a low profile.”
On Oct. 8, 2022, Nadal and Perelló welcomed a baby boy.
So, who is Rafael Nadal’s other half? From their Italian engagement to their son, here’s everything to know about Mery “Xisxa” Perelló and her relationship with Rafael Nadal.
She’s from Nadal’s hometown
Like her husband, Perelló is from Mallorca, the largest island of Spain’s Balearic Islands. According to her LinkedIn, she attended the University of the Balearic Islands from 2006 to 2010, obtaining an undergraduate degree in business management. Perelló later attended ESADE, a graduate school in Barcelona, for post-grad studies.
Nadal is an active member of the community in Mallorca. In 2018, photos surfaced of the tennis star cleaning up with local residents of Sant Llorenç des Cardassar after flash floods hit the city. The cousin of one of Nadal’s close friends was killed during the deadly floods, along with her young son.
“I really lived that tragedy, from very close,” Nadal told CNN at the time. “Was very sad for all the people that lost the materials, but especially, the lives that can’t come back.”
She got engaged to Nadal on vacation in Italy
After dating for 14 years, Perelló got engaged to Nadal on a romantic holiday in Rome, as Hola! Spain reported at the time.
After news of their engagement broke, several tabloids reported that the pair were set to marry in Mallorca in June 2019. However, Nadal’s spokesman denied the claims to PEOPLE, calling the reports “fake news.”
“Normally we don’t speak about Rafa’s private life, ever,” his rep said. “However this information is absolutely incorrect and fake news from non-credible sources.”
They tied the knot in October 2019
Perelló married Nadal in October 2019 in their hometown of Mallorca. She wore a long-sleeved gown by Barcelona-based bridal designer Rosa Clara, which was featured on the designer’s social media accounts. The jeweled neckline and hand-embroidered fabric made for an elegant combination.