Tennis icon and life-long Real Madrid fan shows faith in Xabi Alonso – ‘We will fight for everything’

Rafa Nadal, one of the most famous tennis players in the world and a lifelong Real Madrid supporter, was spotted in the VIP box at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday during Real Madrid’s clash with Villarreal. 

It was his first visit of the season, and before kick-off, he took a few moments to speak with Real Madrid TV, sharing his thoughts on Xabi Alonso’s team and sending a clear message to those doubting the new manager.

“Xabi is here, he knows the club well, he’s young, with a spectacular resume in Germany,” began Rafa Nadal, adding that, 

“He’s started the season and won every match except one. He missed the derby, and it was too big a blow, but it feels like the world is ending.”

Nadal calls for calm and praises Mbappe

Continuing his message, Nadal expressed full confidence in the squad’s ability to compete for major honours this season. He said, 

“The reality is that I was fully prepared, and Real Madrid will fight for everything. A little calm, let the team work, which is vital, and not just think about the specific moment. 

Rafael Nadal watched the Villarreal clash from the VIP box. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“We have to keep our sights set on a very long season, with big goals. It was a complicated start, and it’s turning out very well.”

The tennis legend also had words of admiration for Kylian Mbappe, who has made a dazzling start to the 2025/26 season. Nadal stated, 

“When Kylian was signed, we knew what we were getting.

“Kylian was signed, believing he was the best in the world, and he’s having a great start to the season, proving it wasn’t a mistake to think he was the best in the world. 

“He’s going to fight to be that, I’m convinced, and he’ll do so with a great team behind him. 

“I’m especially excited that he’s succeeding like this because I know how excited he was too,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo