María Francisca Perelló’s Radiant Baby Bump Reveal Stuns Tennis World: “Our Little Star Will Shine Forever!” – Viral Photo of Nadal and Newborn Sparks Global Joy
The tennis world is buzzing with excitement as María Francisca Perelló, wife of 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal, unveiled her stunning baby bump in a heartwarming announcement that has captivated fans globally. In a rare and emotional social media post, Perelló shared a breathtaking photo of herself cradling her bump alongside Nadal, beaming with pride. Accompanying the image were eight poignant words about their unborn child: “Our little star will shine forever!” The photo, which also featured a glimpse of their newborn’s ultrasound, went viral within hours, igniting a wave of joy and celebration across the tennis community and beyond. As the Nadal family prepares to welcome their second child, this moment has solidified their status as one of sport’s most beloved families.

The announcement came on June 30, 2025, via Perelló’s private Instagram account, which she briefly made public to share the joyous news. The photo captured a tender moment: Nadal, dressed casually in a white shirt, resting his hand gently on Perelló’s bump, with the Mediterranean Sea sparkling behind them in their native Mallorca. Perelló’s caption read, “Our hearts are full as we await our little star. Our little star will shine forever!” The ultrasound image, subtly included in the post, revealed the silhouette of their baby, sending fans into a frenzy of speculation about the child’s gender and name.

This marks the second child for Nadal and Perelló, who welcomed their son, Rafael Jr., in October 2022. The couple, married since 2019, has always been private, making this public reveal a rare treat for fans. The announcement follows earlier reports from sportpundit.com.ng and edatv.news in 2024 and 2025, which hinted at Perelló’s pregnancy but lacked confirmation until now. The timing, coinciding with the start of Wimbledon 2025, amplified the global reaction, as the tennis world celebrated one of its greatest icons off the court.
Within hours, the photo racked up millions of likes and shares, with #NadalBaby trending worldwide on X. Fans flooded the post with heartfelt messages, with one writing, “Rafa and Mery are giving us all the feels—congratulations!” Another posted, “That ultrasound is adorable! The next Nadal champion is coming!” The image’s serene beauty—Perelló glowing in a flowing white dress and Nadal’s proud smile—struck a chord, evoking the couple’s deep love and connection to their Mallorcan roots.

Celebrities and tennis stars joined the outpouring. Roger Federer, Nadal’s longtime rival and friend, commented, “So beautiful! Can’t wait to meet your little star!” Serena Williams added, “Mery, you’re radiant! Love to you and Rafa.” Even non-tennis figures, like Spanish singer Rosalía, chimed in, saying, “This is pure magic!” The viral spread was fueled by fan edits on X, pairing the photo with clips of Nadal’s iconic Roland Garros victories, symbolizing a legacy that now extends to his growing family.
Perelló’s eight-word declaration—“Our little star will shine forever!”—has become a rallying cry for fans, who see it as a reflection of the couple’s hopes for their child. Sources close to the family suggest the phrase is inspired by their son’s nickname, “Little Rafa,” and their love for Mallorca’s starry skies. “Mery and Rafa chose those words to express their belief that this child, like their first, will bring light to their lives,” a friend told Hola! magazine. Speculation about the baby’s name has already begun, with fans suggesting celestial-inspired names like Estrella or Luna, tying to Perelló’s poetic announcement.
The couple’s decision to share the ultrasound added an intimate touch, sparking debates about whether they’ll reveal the baby’s gender. Earlier reports, like one from edatv.news citing Toni Nadal, hinted at a boy, while sportpundit.com.ng claimed a girl. Perelló’s post offered no clarification, keeping the mystery alive and fans eagerly guessing.Since retiring in November 2024, Nadal has embraced fatherhood and his Rafa Nadal Academy, where he mentors young players. Perelló, a key figure in the Rafa Nadal Foundation, has balanced philanthropy with motherhood, earning admiration for her grace and privacy. Their decision to share this moment reflects a desire to connect with fans who’ve supported Nadal’s 23-year career, from his 14 Roland Garros titles to his Olympic gold.
The announcement comes as Nadal prepares to attend Wimbledon 2025 as a spectator, cheering for protégés like Carlos Alcaraz. His focus on family has resonated with fans, who see Perelló’s reveal as a testament to their grounded values. “Rafa and Mery are showing us what really matters—love and family,” one X user wrote.
As the due date approaches—rumored for late summer 2025—the tennis world is united in joy for Nadal and Perelló. The viral photo and Perelló’s heartfelt words have transformed a personal moment into a global celebration, reminding fans why the Nadals are cherished beyond the court. “Our little star will shine forever” isn’t just a promise—it’s a legacy in the making, one that will illuminate the Nadal family and their fans for years to come.