Renowned Spanish tennis player Rafa Nadal, alongside his wife Xisca Perelló, is set to establish the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center in Marbella, marking a significant expansion of the Rafa Nadal Academy's reach.
The new tennis facility will be located within the iconic Don Carlos Hotel, which is part of the Selenta Group, and embodies the luxurious essence of the Costa del Sol. This initiative reinforces Nadal's commitment to sharing his world-class training philosophy with aspiring players and tennis enthusiasts across Spain. The official announcement came on February 25, 2025, with plans for the center to open its doors by summer 2025.
Designed to provide high-quality coaching and comprehensive tennis programs, the center will offer seven clay courts and two paddle courts with stunning views of the Mediterranean. It aims to cater to players of all ages and levels, enabling them to develop their skills through structured training sessions. Nadal shared his excitement about the center's establishment, stating, "I am very happy to announce the birth of the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center, which consolidates our project for the expansion of our methodology here within Spain."
Albert Tomas, the CEO of Selenta Group, echoed Nadal’s sentiments, describing the new facility as “an unbeatable destination for lovers of tennis and quality tourism” and highlighting the significance of the center within the luxurious amenities of the Don Carlos Hotel.
The Rafa Nadal Tennis Center will not only appeal to local enthusiasts but also attract tourists seeking to blend their holiday experience with tennis. Marbella, known for its charm and extensive recreational offerings, is expected to benefit economically from this innovative project. Visitors can anticipate not only top-tier tennis training and facilities but also the opportunity to enjoy the sun-soaked Andalusian coastline.
Beyond tennis, the center will include additional attractions such as pro-shops offering sports attire from renowned brands like Nike and Babolat, along with exhibitions showcasing Nadal's numerous accolades and trophies throughout his illustrious career.
Positioning itself as the first Rafa Nadal Tennis Center to open on the Spanish mainland, this facility will join others located globally, including centers found in Costa Mujeres (Mexico), Sani (Greece), and Hong Kong. Each venue is crafted to provide elite-level training experiences outside of Mallorca, where the original Rafa Nadal Academy is based.
Nadal aims to share his extensive expertise gained over 15 years competing at the top level with passionate players, making each center unique by integrating valuable lessons and methodologies he has refined throughout his career. With Marbella’s idyllic climate and stunning backdrop, this new center is poised to provide visitors with exceptional training opportunities and unforgettable memories.
The establishment of the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center highlights the growing intersection of sports and tourism, as the facility is constructed to not only focus on enhancing tennis skills but also to offer guests the luxury experiences associated with Marbella, making it appealing for families and sports staff alike.
Upon its launch, the center is expected to create multiple job opportunities, from coaching positions to hospitality roles at the surrounding hotel, contributing positively to the local economy. Nadal has reiterated the importance of fostering talent beyond his competitive career, aiming to inspire the next generation of tennis players.
Albert Tomas emphasized the significance of bringing this elite sporting destination to life within the esteemed Don Carlos Marbella, stating, "The completely renovated Don Carlos Marbella could not have had a more fitting introduction than this state-of-the-art sports facility." This development, complete with world-class amenities and services, will serve both as a training venue and as a value-added experience for hotel guests.
With construction and training programs being rolled out to prepare for the summer opening, anticipation is building for what this center will bring not only to the local tennis community but also to visitors from around the globe who wish to improve their skills and enjoy the luxury of Marbella.
Clearly, this latest venture marks another bold step for Rafa Nadal as he continues to expand his legacy, both on and off the court. The Rafa Nadal Tennis Center is not just about tennis; it is about creating memorable experiences for those who appreciate the sport and the exquisite lifestyle it has to offer. Enthusiasts and tourists alike will soon have the opportunity to witness firsthand the combination of competitive spirit and Mediterranean comfort, making it yet another feather in the cap for Marbella as it shines on the international sports stage.