Sixteen months into retirement, Rafael Nadal has been honored with a Spanish noble title and is teasing a potential exhibition match with Roger Federer. He is also filming a documentary in New York City and launching a US padel tour through his academy. These activities highlight Nadal's busy post-tennis life.
Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, marked 16 months of retirement in March 2026 with several notable developments. King Felipe VI elevated him to the rank of Marquess of Llevant de Mallorca as part of celebrations for the monarch's first decade on the throne. This hereditary title recognizes Nadal's contributions to Spanish sport and national identity over two decades. He was one of six Spaniards honored in the ceremony.
In New York City, Nadal is being filmed for the documentary series "Difference Makers," which features him and his wife, Maria Francisca Perello. The series explores the lives of prominent figures who drive positive change, focusing on Nadal's work with the Rafael Nadal Foundation and the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca. Reflecting on his legacy, Nadal wrote in a 2024 column for The Players' Tribune that he does not want to be defined solely by his 92 singles titles and two Olympic golds.
Tennis enthusiasts await a possible reunion with Roger Federer. Nadal hinted at an exhibition match, stating, "You never know. I have a very good relationship with Roger, we talk regularly. I think that at some point something will come out." He noted needing time to prepare, having played only limited tennis since retiring. A potential venue is the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island, tied to Federer's 2026 induction.
The Rafa Nadal Academy announced a four-stop US Padel Tour for 2026 in partnership with Playtomic. Events include March 13-15 at Padel X in Miami, April 24-26 at Padel 39 in Austin, May 8-10 at Ultra Padel Miami, and a finale at Reserve New York in Manhattan. Nadal commented, "After the great reception we've had in Spain and the start of the circuit in Italy, taking the leap to the United States is a very important step for us. Padel is growing spectacularly in this market."
Nadal returned to Melbourne for the 2026 Australian Open, his first visit since retirement, to celebrate Kia's 25th anniversary as a sponsor, as noted by tournament director Craig Tiley. Separately, he resumed skiing after 26 years and shared a photo from the slopes. As father to three-year-old Rafa Jr. and six-month-old Miguel, Nadal appears content in his new chapter.