"I would like to thank President Florentino Pérez and the board for proposing me. I have accepted this proposal with great enthusiasm, a willingness to learn and the desire to contribute as much as possible," Rafael Nadal told SPORT1 in comments translated from German. The former world No 1 is set to be put forward for a seat on Real Madrid's board of directors, with members due to ratify the move at an extraordinary general meeting on 21 November.
The vote on 21 November
Real Madrid said it will propose Nadal to the supporters, and if approved appoint him to the body. The club described him as a benchmark in Spanish and international sport, and said his appointment would contribute to the present and future of the club.
That pitch is not just ceremonial. Real Madrid sit third in La Liga after 11 matches, with 27 points from 9 wins, 0 draws and 2 losses, and they have won four straight league games. They have also started the Champions League league phase with three wins from three, scoring 10 and conceding 5.
The club's own statement frames the move as both symbolic and practical, which is about right. Nadal is one of Spain's most recognisable sports figures, and Real Madrid are bringing that profile into the boardroom rather than using it as a photo opportunity.
The only thing that still needs to happen is the member vote on 21 November. Until then, it remains a proposal, not an appointment.
Written by Daniel Hartley with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 5 outlets. How we work →
