Rafa Nadal can add another title and recognition to his name. The beloved Spanish tennis legend and his wife, Mery Perello, were granted a noble title by King Felipe IV. Both are now officially known as Marquises de Llevant of Mallorca.
Nadal's recognition marks the first time in 11 years that King Felipe has granted a nobility title. According to a statement shared by the Spanish Royal House, Nadal was recognized due to his excellent sports trajectory, serving as a source of Spanish pride and inspiration for Spanish society.
The title will be passed down to Nadal's descendants, with the elder child inheriting it regardless of their gender.
The title of Marquis de Llevant hails from the region of Manacor, Mallorca, where Nadal was born. Nowadays, a nobility title is more symbolic than in years past, when it represented a deed of land. In Nadal's case, the title serves as a recognition from the government and society. It's also a way to reinforce Nadal's influence in Spain and Mallorca, making him an even more significant ambassador to his culture worldwide.
According to our sister website, HOLA! Spain, the title doesn't grant Nadal any possessions or land, will exert no financial remunerations or demand for a code of conduct or public service. It also can't be sold or given away.
More of Nadal's relationship with the Spanish royals
While this marks one of Nadal's most prestigious and culturally symbolic recognitions, it's not his first. In 2008, he was recognized with the Prince of Asturias Award for Sports. In 2022, King Felipe granted Nadal the Camino Real Award, awarded by the University of Alcala in Madrid.
On that occasion, the King introduced Nadal with fond words, calling him an exceptional person who has managed to remain humble and simple despite all of his success, always continuing to work and improve himself.