Tennis legend Rafael Nadal and his beloved wife, Xisca Perelló, are radiating happiness as they share the heartwarming news that their family is growing once again. The celebrated couple could not contain their joy as they announced that Xisca is expecting their second child, revealing a surprising and meaningful name for the newest addition to their family. Amid this personal milestone, the tennis world is also buzzing with other developments, including the Italian Tennis Federation’s firm stance on protecting its star player, Jannik Sinner, as he prepares to return from a doping-related suspension.
Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, has always cherished his role as a family man off the court. In a heartfelt statement, he expressed his overwhelming joy, saying, “I am the happiest person right now. Xisca and I are so blessed to be welcoming another child into our lives.” The couple, known for their deep bond and private nature, shared the news with fans worldwide, sparking an outpouring of love and congratulations from the tennis community and beyond.
Xisca Perelló, who has been Nadal’s partner for nearly two decades, glowed with excitement as she spoke about the pregnancy. “Our family is growing, and we are so grateful for this moment,” she said. The couple’s first child, a son named Rafael, was born in October 2022 and has already brought immense joy to their lives. Now, as they prepare for their second child, Nadal and Perelló revealed a name that has captured attention for its uniqueness and personal significance. While keeping the gender under wraps for now, they hinted that the name reflects their Spanish roots and shared values, promising to share more details closer to the due date.
The announcement was met with warm wishes from fans and fellow players alike. Tennis stars such as Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, and Iga Świątek took to social media to congratulate the couple. “So thrilled for you, Rafa and Xisca! Another little champion in the making,” wrote Świątek on X, while Alcaraz added, “What beautiful news! Wishing you all the best.” The global tennis community, already inspired by Nadal’s resilience and humility, celebrated this joyful milestone as a testament to his grounded life beyond the sport.
Nadal, who retired from professional tennis in November 2024 after an illustrious career, has been embracing life as a husband and father. Despite stepping away from competitive play, his influence remains strong, and this latest news has only deepened fans’ admiration for the Spanish icon.
In other tennis news, the Italian Tennis Federation (FIT) is making headlines with its unwavering support for world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who is set to return to competition at the Italian Open in May 2025 following a three-month doping ban. The FIT has taken a bold stance to protect its star player, announcing that it will impose heavy fines on any player who offends Sinner or references his doping case in a derogatory manner.[](https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/44601407/italian-open-eager-jannik-sinner-back-doping-ban)
Sinner’s suspension, which began in February 2025 after a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), stemmed from two positive tests for the banned substance clostebol in March 2024. The FIT and Sinner’s team have maintained that the contamination was accidental, resulting from a massage by a former physiotherapist. With Sinner’s ban concluding just in time for the Italian Open, anticipation is high for his homecoming, and the FIT is determined to ensure a positive environment. “Jannik is our pride, and we will not tolerate any disrespect,” said FIT president Angelo Binaghi.[](https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/44601407/italian-open-eager-jannik-sinner-back-doping-ban)
Interestingly, Nadal himself has previously spoken highly of Sinner, praising his focus during the challenging doping saga. In a March 2025 interview on Andy Roddick’s podcast, Nadal called Sinner’s ability to stay composed “amazing,” highlighting his respect for the young Italian’s character. This connection underscores the camaraderie within the tennis world, even as Nadal celebrates his own family’s growth.[](https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/rafael-nadal-jannik-sinner-doping-case-b2713023.html)
As Rafael Nadal and Xisca Perelló prepare to welcome their second child, their story continues to inspire. The couple’s love, rooted in their shared values and quiet strength, shines through in this exciting new chapter. Meanwhile, the tennis world eagerly awaits Jannik Sinner’s return, with the FIT’s protective measures signaling a unified front for Italy’s brightest star.
For Nadal and Perelló, the joy of impending parenthood takes center stage. “Family is everything,” Nadal said, his words resonating with fans who have followed his journey from clay courts to fatherhood. As they await the arrival of their newest family member, the tennis legend and his wife are cherishing every moment, surrounded by love and blessings from around the globe.
