Nadal Declines to Run for Real Madrid Presidency

1 month ago 7

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Rafael Nadal, the veteran tennis champion, has officially rejected claims that he plans to run for the presidency of Real Madrid.

These statements followed a surge of speculation after club president Florentino Pérez announced early elections following a trophy‑less season. Nadal addressed the rumors directly, confirming they were untrue.

The 22‑time Grand Slam winner said he remains focused on his academy, family and personal projects, thereby ending speculation about his potential involvement in the 2026 election.

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“Yesterday I wanted to nip any speculation in the bud. I saw that I was being linked with [possible candidate] Enrique Riquelme’s candidacy. I understand that it made sense and people can speculate but, although I have a good relationship with him [Riquelme], I have enormous respect for Florentino and everything that he is,” Nadal wrote on his X handle.

“I didn’t want to fuel speculation about something I’m not involved in. To prevent that — I’m not one to deny things — but football is a world apart and I just wanted to make it clear that I’m not focussed on that at the moment.”

“I like football, I’m passionate about it, I’m a Madrid fan and a Mallorca fan. Yesterday was a difficult day. We have to recognise that things at Madrid have not gone well. This is sport — there have been mistakes and there is nothing wrong with recognising that after so many years of making the right decisions.”

“I understand that elections are being called. The members will decide whether to keep their trust or if there is a possible alternative, and the owners will decide who they want to be their leader.”