September 19, (THEWILL) – Tennis star, Rafael Nadal, has revealed his ambition to one day become president of Real Madrid football club.
The Spaniard, an avid Real Madrid fan and honorary club member, made the admission during a television interview. With current Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez, having held the position since 2009 in his recent tenure, Nadal acknowledged that a vacancy at the top may arise in the coming years.
“Would I like to be [president]? Yes, I think so,” said the 36-year-old. However, Nadal confessed that he may not currently meet the eligibility criteria which includes having been a club member for 20 years. “I am quite realistic with myself, I know my limitations, and I’m not sure if I would be capable. Time will tell,” he remarked. Nadal has stepped back from professional tennis this year due to injury, prompting speculation he may retire in 2024 after 22 Grand Slam singles titles.
Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti gave his blessing to Nadal’s presidential ambitions on Wednesday. “We’re very proud that Nadal, who we totally admire, is a real ‘Madridista’,” he stated. But Ancelotti believes current president Perez is doing “a fantastic job” leading the club.
Nadal will likely remain focused on returning to tennis in the short-term. But the revelation demonstrates his long-term passion for Real Madrid and desire to be involved with his beloved club.
