Rafa Nadal’s career is one of the most epic in sports history. His name is firmly cemented in tennis royalty thanks to 22 Grand Slam titles and hundreds of matches where he thrilled fans with his unique playing style and exemplary sportsmanship. Behind the titles and records lies a gripping, inspiring story that is told like never before in the docuseries Rafa.
Across four episodes, featuring never-before-seen footage, access to his daily life, and testimonials from his peers, the series offers an intimate, human portrait of an athlete who has become a legend.
© Atilano Garcia / SOPA Images/Sipa USAThe series hits Netflix on May 21, but its premiere was held this Wednesday in Madrid. The event took place at the Beti Jai fronton court, where the star was surrounded by family, friends, and fans.
Rafa Nadal
© Atilano Garcia / SOPA Images/Sipa USAClearly moved by receiving so much affection once again, Rafa Nadal shared that the documentary showcases his career alongside his day-to-day life.
“An intimate look into what my career has been like, with details that were previously unknown and a touch of reality regarding what the life of a professional tennis player is like with various injury struggles,” Nadal said.
His Wife: Mery Perelló
© SOPA Images LimitedMery Perelló, Rafa Nadal’s wife and his unconditional support system, could not miss such an important night. They met when they were just kids, and she has been a fundamental piece of his career, accompanying him to tournaments and standing by his side through the highs and lows.
“Mery, you are my best partner in life. You have always been where I needed you, supporting me from a position that wasn’t always easy. I hope to make you as happy as you have made me,” he told her during the tribute held for him at Roland Garros.
His Son: Rafa Nadal Jr.
© Grosby/SIPAWith all due respect to the tennis star, the other big highlight of the evening was his son, Rafa Jr. The little boy, who is about to turn 4, stole the spotlight with his spontaneous and playful antics. He arrived holding his grandmother’s hand, completely oblivious to the massive scale of the star-studded event, moving naturally among the cameras, microphones, and spotlights.
He got to experience the final stretch of his father’s active career up close, and now he gets to enjoy his dad at home every day, just like his brother Miquel. Rafa Jr. has already shown how much he loves tennis, a sport that he currently views as a fun game.
His Mother: Ana María Parera
© GTRES“I have always had a family-oriented upbringing, and living in Mallorca has been of vital importance for my happiness and for being able to be close to the people I love,” Rafa said. One of those key people is his mother, Ana María Parera. Always discreet, she has been unconditionally by his side, serving as a grounding anchor.
For her, the most important thing is not everything the tennis player has achieved, but rather seeing how he has become a person who has fought to reach his goals.
A Historic Sports Court Reimagined
© Juan Naharro GimenezOpened in 1894, the Beti Jai fronton court was transformed into a massive outdoor theater to host the event. An extra-large screen and seating were set up for guests to enjoy a preview of the documentary, which is one of the most highly anticipated Netflix releases of the season.
