Rafael Nadal Reveals His “Wife Suffers” Because of His New Obsession
22-time Grand Slam champion admits golf has taken over his retirement—and household
By Shahida Jacobs
February 13, 2026 | 2 min read
Retirement was supposed to mean more time with family. For Rafael Nadal, it means more time on the golf course—and his wife isn’t thrilled about it.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who hung up his tennis racket in November 2024, has traded baseline battles for fairway drives. Speaking at a charity tournament in Madrid this week, Nadal made a candid confession:
“I follow golf every week, and my wife suffers because of it.”
Nadal’s passion for golf is no secret. During his tennis career, he frequently played charity events and practice rounds. Since retiring, the obsession has only deepened.
| Post-Retirement Golf Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Feb 2024 | Won Balearic Mid-Amateur Championship by 7 strokes |
| July 2025 | Played round with Roger Federer in Mallorca |
| 2026 | Launches own charity circuit: Spin&Swing |
“I watched Jon Rahm play this week in Riyadh. He had a spectacular finish. I generally enjoy following it.”
Nadal revealed he’s received multiple invitations to turn professional in golf but declined—until now, tennis always came first.
“I’ve been offered an invitation several times, but so far the circumstances haven’t been right.”
Would he consider it now?
“You never know. But I would have to feel like I was playing without making a fool of myself, with the hope of at least being able to compete—even if it’s just against myself.”
With Federer already a regular playing partner and Andy Murray also reportedly golf-obsessed, could a Big Four golf showdown be coming?
Nadal teased last year:
“Yes, it could happen. But they have to get training. I have a bit of an advantage. On the tennis court, there wasn’t that much difference between us. In this, I’m much better than them.”