Tennis has had a significant presence in the Laureus Awards, and this year was no different. Aside from the nominations received by four players, Rafael Nadal also appeared at the ceremony, as his foundation was nominated and won the award. The Spaniard attended the event with his wife as the two screamed power couple. Off the court, a private moment of connection unfolded as Nadal guided his wife.

The Rafael Nadal Foundation focuses its efforts on the integration and social development of children in Spain and India. Their efforts earned them the Laureus Sport for Good Award in 2024, and the 22-time grand slam champion received it graciously. He was accompanied by his wife, Maria Francisca Perello, who also works hard at the foundation. 

Her interview with the Laureus Awards became a handful of her interviews. Rafa helped her start the process. When asked her opinion on the foundation being at the stage it is now, she did not start by speaking into the microphone in her hand. Rafa quickly pointed out that she should be speaking with it and helping her with the process.

“I never imagined to be here in that sense. So it’s a recognition to all the people that’s working at the foundation. Everyone who works day by day and who believes in the power of sports. So it’s amazing, what can I say? It’s also a commitment from our side to look after all the people we are taking care of, so, so happy.”

When the two accepted the awards, Rafa also guided her onto the stage. The limelight shone on Perello as her husband stood at her side, supporting her in her glory as she has been the pillar of Rafa’s foundation for a long time. As the former world number 1 stood by her, she changed her mind about appearing for his matches.

Maria Francisca Perello’s stands by Rafael Nadal amidst Barcelona Open return

Rafa came back to professional tennis after being sidelined for two months due to an injury sustained before the Australian Open. He first faced Flavio Cobolli, beating him 6-2, 6-3. He then played against Alex De Minaur, losing to the Aussie, 5-7, 1-6. Regardless of the results, Rafa had two fans cheering him on in the stands. 

Perello does not like to attend his matches, as she once revealed in a 2011 Telegraph interview. “He needs his space when he is competing, and just the idea of me hanging around and waiting on his needs all day tires me out.” She decided to forego the rule this time as she made sure to stand by her husband in his last appearance in tournaments. 

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Rafa replied with a similar gesture at the Laureus Awards, showing the two are definite couple goals. As the year continues, we will likely see the two of them together more often.