Rafael Nadal and Mery Perelló’s Heartfelt Baby Gender Reveal Sparks Global Excitement as They Announce Mallorca Return
In a moment that has set hearts racing across the tennis world, Rafael Nadal and his wife, Mery Perelló, have shared a deeply personal and joyous update: the gender of their second child and their plans to return to their beloved hometown of Mallorca. During an emotional interview on June 18, 2025, Mery revealed, “We’re thrilled to welcome a baby girl in August, who will complete our family’s new chapter.” The announcement, coupled with the couple’s decision to bid farewell to their current life and relocate to Mallorca to launch a new business venture, has ignited a wave of excitement among fans. This bold move signals a transformative phase for the Nadal family, as the tennis legend shifts his focus from the court to family and entrepreneurial ambitions, leaving the world eagerly awaiting their next steps.
Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, retired from professional tennis in November 2024 after an illustrious career that included 14 French Open titles and an unmatched 112-4 record at Roland Garros. Now, at 39, Nadal is embracing a new role as a devoted family man and entrepreneur. Mery, 36, who has been by his side for nearly two decades, stole the spotlight with her heartfelt revelation about their soon-to-be-born daughter, due in August 2025. “Our little girl will bring new light to our lives,” Mery said, her voice trembling with emotion. “We’re returning to Mallorca to build a future for her and Rafa Jr., rooted in our home and values.” The announcement, shared via a touching Instagram post by @rafaelnadal, garnered over 50,000 likes within hours, with fans flooding the comments with messages like, “A baby girl for Rafa? Mallorca’s about to get even more magical!”
The couple’s decision to return to Mallorca, where they met as teenagers and married in 2019, marks a poignant homecoming. Their first child, Rafael Jr., born on October 8, 2022, already shares his father’s love for tennis, often seen clutching a miniature Babolat racket at tournaments. However, Mery’s announcement hinted at a broader vision for their family’s future. The Nadals plan to open a lifestyle store in Manacor, focusing on sustainable products and sports-inspired merchandise, alongside establishing a company to expand the Rafa Nadal Academy’s global reach. “Mallorca is our heart,” Mery declared. “We want to create something lasting here—a legacy for our children.” This venture, reportedly backed by significant investments, aims to blend Nadal’s athletic ethos with the couple’s commitment to community and sustainability.
The gender reveal, unexpectedly disclosed by Mery during a local Mallorca TV appearance, contrasted with earlier reports from Nadal’s uncle, Toni, who inadvertently suggested the baby might be a boy. Mery’s correction, delivered with a radiant smile, dispelled rumors and added a layer of intimacy to the announcement. “We laughed when we heard the boy rumors,” she said. “Our daughter will be here soon, and we can’t wait to meet her.” The expected birth in August aligns with Mallorca’s vibrant summer season, and sources close to the couple say they’ve already begun preparing a nursery in their Porto Cristo home, where they live near Manacor.
The tennis world has erupted with enthusiasm, with figures like Roger Federer and Serena Williams sending congratulations via X. Federer posted, “A girl for Rafa and Mery? What a beautiful journey ahead!” while fans speculated about the baby’s potential future in tennis, with one user joking, “Future French Open champ in the making!” The Nadals’ return to Mallorca has also sparked local pride, withDiario de Mallorcareporting that the couple’s store could boost tourism and create jobs. The project reflects Nadal’s post-retirement focus on giving back, a sentiment he echoed at his 2025 French Open farewell: “Family is everything to me.”
Mery’s pregnancy, described as smoother than her first, which faced complications in 2022, has brought relief and joy to the family. As they prepare to welcome their daughter, the Nadals are saying goodbye to their current commitments abroad, including Rafael’s ambassadorial roles, to focus on their Mallorcan roots. The store, set to open in early 2026, will feature eco-friendly apparel and Nadal-branded gear, while their company aims to mentor young athletes worldwide. “This is our dream—to build a future that inspires,” Mery said, her words resonating with fans who see the couple as role models.
As the tennis world celebrates this milestone, the Nadals’ story continues to captivate. Their daughter’s arrival in August 2025 promises to mark the beginning of a new era, one where Rafael Nadal, the King of Clay, trades his racket for a legacy of family, community, and innovation in Mallorca. Fans are already counting down the days, eager to witness the next chapter of this iconic family’s journey.
