Rafael Nadal opens up about wife Maria suffering from his golf obsession and drops big tournament hint

Rafael Nadal has made it clear that golf is not just a hobby for him. The Spanish legend recently said his wife, Maria Francisca Perelló, “suffers” because he watches golf almost every week.

At the same time, he gave an honest update about when fans might see him play in golf tournaments. Rafael Nadal, now 39, is known for winning 22 Grand Slam singles titles, the second most in the men’s Open Era. Even during his tennis career, he always loved golf. Now that he is spending more time away from professional tennis, that love has grown stronger.In an interview with Punto de Break, Rafael Nadal spoke openly about how much golf means to him. He said:“I watch golf every week, and my wife suffers from it. I saw Jon Rahm play this week in Riyadh, who achieved a spectacular final in the second round and almost won.

I was sometimes tempted to play, because several times they wanted to give me an invitation. But so far, circumstances have not arisen. In the future, you never know, but I should feel like I’m playing without making a fool of myself and with the illusion of being able to at least compete, even if it’s only with myself.

”

Rafael Nadal explains why he has not accepted golf tournament invitations yet and links passion to Rafa Nadal Foundation charity series

He has received invitations to play in tournaments before, but he has chosen to wait. For Nadal, stepping onto the course means more than just showing up. He wants to feel confident and competitive, even if he is only competing with himself.Even though he has not played as a professional golfer, Nadal has already tested his skills in amateur events. In 2024, he won the scratch category at the Robinson Classic, competing against 74 other golfers.

That win proved he takes the sport seriously.At the same time, Nadal has connected golf with charity work. He recently launched “Spin and Swing” by Cantabria Labs, a golf series that brings together corporate teams. The money raised supports the Rafa Nadal Foundation, which he founded with his mother, Ana Maria Nadal, in 2010.Speaking about the project, he said:“This initiative is personal because of my love for golf. It’s a way to generate ongoing support for the Rafa Nadal Foundation and continue helping children and teenagers in vulnerable situations. Golf is unique because you can enjoy it with people of all levels. The series will be a shared experience, giving time to connect with other companies and build networks. We want it to be fun, enjoyable and something that lasts for years.

”The foundation supports children from underprivileged backgrounds through education and sports programs. For Rafael Nadal, golf is not only about winning. It is also about helping others.