Rafael Nadal Wife: Meet María Francisca Mery Perelló
María Francisca Perelló, widely known by her nickname Xisca or her given name Mery, is best recognized as the wife of Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal. Unlike many partners of elite global athletes, Perelló has deliberately maintained a quiet profile, declining most interview requests and avoiding social media. She serves as the director general of the Fundación Rafa Nadal, directing social integration and educational programs for vulnerable children.
Born on July 7, 1988, in Manacor, Mallorca, Perelló grew up in the same hometown as her husband. Her relationship with Nadal spans nearly two decades, transitioning from childhood friendship to a 14-year engagement before their wedding in 2019. Together, they balance demanding professional responsibilities with raising their two sons in Mallorca.
Origins and Early Life in Mallorca
Perelló was raised in a working-class family in Manacor. Her mother worked as a local municipal official, and her father operated a construction contracting business.
Education played a central role in her early life. She attended school locally, where she befriended Maribel Nadal, Rafael's younger sister. This friendship served as the foundational bridge into the Nadal family circle. After completing her secondary education, Perelló enrolled at the University of the Balearic Islands, earning her degree in business administration. She later traveled to London to study English and pursue postgraduate training in business management.
Career and Professional Work
While her husband built a historic tennis career featuring 22 Grand Slam singles titles, Perelló focused on building an independent professional path.
- Corporate Background: Before stepping into her current philanthropic role, Perelló worked in sports marketing for IMG and took on administrative responsibilities at the Spanish multinational insurance firm Mapfre.
- Philanthropy: In 2012, she joined the Fundación Rafa Nadal as a project manager, eventually advancing to director general. The organization operates educational and athletic initiatives in Spain and India, supporting children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Autonomy: Perelló has consistently avoided relying on her husband's fame or financial standing for her career, maintaining strict professional independence.
Relationship Timeline and Marriage
Nadal and Perelló began dating in 2005 when he was 19 and she was 17. At the time, Nadal was already emerging as a dominant force on the ATP Tour, having captured his first French Open title earlier that year.
The couple maintained a low-profile romance throughout their twenties and thirties. In January 2019, following a 14-year courtship, Nadal proposed during a trip to Rome. On October 19, 2019, they married at La Fortaleza, a historic estate in Mallorca. The ceremony hosted close family, friends, and notable figures, including former Spanish royals.
Why She Rarely Attends Matches
Media outlets frequently question why Perelló is seldom seen sitting courtside during tennis tournaments. She addressed this dynamic directly in past interviews, noting that constant travel would disrupt her professional commitments and career.
- Personal Space: Perelló explained that traveling constantly and waiting courtside all day would exhaust her and create unnecessary pressure for Nadal.
- Independence: By maintaining separate routines during major tournaments, both partners preserve their personal autonomy. She typically limits her in-person attendance to major finals or select Grand Slam events.
Family Life and Children
The couple expanded their family following their marriage, welcoming their first son, Rafael Jr., in October 2022. In August 2025, they welcomed their second son, Miquel, named in honor of Perelló's late father.
Nadal formally retired from professional tennis in late 2024, utilizing his retirement address to thank Perelló for serving as his steadfast travel companion and partner through two decades of competition. The family splits their time between their permanent residence in Mallorca and travel commitments tied to the foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Xisca Perelló's real name?
Her given name is María Francisca Perelló, though she goes by Mery or her childhood nickname Xisca.
What is Xisca Perelló's profession?
She is the director general of the Fundación Rafa Nadal, managing social and educational programs for children.
How long have Rafael Nadal and Mery Perelló been together?
They started dating in 2005, marking over two decades together as a couple.
Do they have children?
Yes, they share two sons: Rafael Jr., born in 2022, and Miquel, born in 2025.
