Rafa Nadal is enjoying a well-deserved holiday in Japan with his entire family. Joining him on this special trip are his wife, their two children, his parents, his sister, and his mother-in-law, Mery’s mother.
"Had a great time in Japan with my family!" he wrote. "Loved exploring, learning about the culture, traditions, and visiting some amazing places. Thank you for all the kindness and warm welcome!"
The charm of the Asian country seems to have captivated the 22-time Grand Slam champion, who appears in good spirits in every photo. Most of the images were from their adventures, surrounded by scenic views, including a Japanese garden.
In one photo, Nadal can be seen dressed in a white shirt and gray trousers, holding his eldest son in his arms while the family smiles. The group posed with Japan's sleek modern architecture in the background.
Another photo shows Rafa with his sister Maribel, with whom he shares a very close bond. It’s not the first time we’ve seen the entire Nadal clan together. The former athlete has always been deeply connected to his family.
His parents, Ana María and Sebastián, his sister Maribel, and his wife, Mery Perelló, have been by his side through triumphs and defeats alike, celebrating his victories and offering unconditional support in tougher times.
Among the many cultural experiences Japan has to offer is the chance to dress in traditional attire. In two of the photos, we see Nadal embracing the local custom, first posing with his parents and sister, and then with Mery, inside a traditional Japanese house.
The whole family wears yukatas, which are the light summer version of the kimono often worn in tea houses or hot springs. Earlier this August, Rafa and Mery welcomed their second child, a baby boy named Miquel, in tribute to Mery’s late father, who passed away in April 2023 at the age of 63 after a long illness.
The new arrival filled the Nadal-Perelló household with joy, joining his big brother, Rafa Jr. Nadal’s trip to Japan also brings back sporting memories. During his last visit to the country, he claimed his only Tokyo title in 2010 with a stunning shot that left Monfils momentarily frozen.
That final was marked by a spectacular sliced backhand, a “banana shot” in pure Mallorcan style, that completely surprised his opponent and secured the decisive break of the match.