In a shocking turn of events, tennis legend Rafael Nadal and his wife, Maria Francisca “Mery” Perelló, have announced their divorce following a heated dispute over child custody. The couple, who have been together for over a decade and married since 2019, have long been considered one of the most private and stable duos in the world of sports. However, recent revelations suggest that behind closed doors, the pair faced growing challenges, particularly related to their family dynamics.
Reports indicate that the primary source of tension stemmed from disagreements about the upbringing and custody of their child. Nadal, known for his intense dedication to his tennis career, has spent much of his life on the road, competing in tournaments around the globe. As a result, his availability for family responsibilities may have been a point of contention. Perelló, who has always maintained a low profile and avoided the public spotlight, is said to have desired a more stable and consistent family environment, particularly with their growing family.
The couple welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in 2022, a moment that was celebrated by fans and media worldwide. However, as their son grew older, conflicting views on parenting reportedly began to surface. While Nadal’s focus remained split between his professional commitments and his family life, Maria is believed to have prioritized creating a more traditional home environment.
Speculation about the couple’s troubles began circulating earlier this year when Maria was seen attending fewer of Nadal’s matches, sparking rumors of tension in their marriage. Despite attempts to keep their personal life private, sources close to the couple have confirmed that these disagreements ultimately led to irreconcilable differences, culminating in the decision to file for divorce.
The announcement has come as a surprise to many, particularly given the couple’s history of keeping their relationship out of the limelight. Fans and the tennis community have expressed shock and sadness at the news, as Nadal’s on-court success and dedication have often been viewed as supported by the stability of his relationship with Maria.
While neither Nadal nor Maria has made an official public statement regarding the specifics of their divorce, the news marks the end of a chapter for the tennis superstar, whose personal life has now entered the public eye amidst these challenges.