Rafael Nadal’s toddler son takes after his tennis ace dad in more ways than one.
The sportsman and his wife, Maria Francisca Perello, welcomed their son in October 2022, naming their firstborn Rafael after his dad. Aside from his moniker, Rafael junior is following in his father’s famous footsteps in other ways.
The youngster joined Maria and Rafael in Paris for the Olympics, cheering on from the sidelines as his father won his match against Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics.
Maria Francisca Perello, wife of Rafael Nadal with their son Rafael Nadal Junior support Rafael Nadal and partner Carlos Alcaraz of Spain against Andres Molteni and Maximo Gonzalez of Argentina in the Men’s Doubles first round match on day one of the Olympic Games Paris 2024© Getty
Mini Rafael watched his father play tennis
Rafael Junior copied his father’s signature celebratory pose, raising his tiny arms into a fist pump motion, while his dad did the same move – so cute!
Spain’s tennis player Rafael Nadal, his wife Maria Francisca Perello, and their son Rafa Junior watch from a balcony the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris© Getty
Rafael Nadal and his baby pull the same pose
The little boy also delighted the crowds by pulling a series of adorable faces as he watched his father’s game, grimacing at the tension, putting his head in his hands and giving some serious side-eye.
For the special occasion, the adorable youngster wore a light linen shirt to keep him cool, matching his mother who wore a stylish white jacket.