Last updated on: December 22, 2025
Maria Francisca Perello, commonly referred to as Xisca Perello, is the wife of tennis superstar Rafael Nadal. While Nadal happens to be one of the most famous athletes in the world, Xisca prefers to lead a private life and steer clear of fame. In fact, her tranquil personality and upright values have been instrumental in Nadal’s life.
Quick Facts About Maria Francisca Perello
| Full Name | Maria Francisca Perello Pascual |
| Known As | Xisca Perello, Mery |
| Birthdate | January 7, 1988 |
| Age
Height |
37 years and 5 months old
1.78 m |
| Birthplace | Mallorca, Spain |
| Nationality | Spanish |
| Occupation | Director of Social Integration |
| Organization | Rafa Nadal Foundation |
| Education | Business Administration |
| University | University of the Balearic Islands, Palma |
| Husband/Wife | Husband: Rafael Nadal |
| Marriage Date | October 19, 2019 |
| Parents | Bernat Perelló, María Pascual |
| Residence | Mallorca, Spain |
| Children | Rafael Nadal Jr. (born 2022), Miquel Nadal (born 2025) |
| Net Worth | <$1 million (as of 2025) |
Childhood and Background Information
Maria Francisca Perello, commonly known as Xisca, was born in 1988 in Mallorca, Spain. Some sites report Manacor, while others report Palma de Mallorca. Both locations are in the same island where Rafael Nadal hails from. She has a Mallorcan background with no connection with the showbiz industry.
She grew up in a simple and close-knit family. This also goes on to help her develop a grounded personality. She has not let her family change even after she married a global sports star.
Education and Career Progression
Xisca studied Business Administration at the University of the Balearic Islands. Palma was where she studied. After Xisca finished her education, she concentrated on building her career based on purpose instead of publicity.
She is involved with the Rafa Nadal Foundation, which was founded to help children in need through educational and sports initiatives. Since 2016, she has been working as the Director of Social Integration there. She manages community programs there, which aim to provide vulnerable children with a better tomorrow.
Though she holds a very important position, she stays away from limelight. She rarely gives an interview and has no social media account.
Love Story with Rafael Nadal
Xisca and Rafael Nadal have a deep relationship that began many years ago. They knew each other from a very young age, and they began dating in 2005. They met through Nadal’s sister, María Isabel Nadal, who is commonly known as Maribel.
The couple dated for about 14 years before they got married. During their dating life, Xisca supported Nadal in his tennis pursuits. Nadal has often stated that she is the source of stability in his life.
The couple became engaged in January of 2019 when they went to Rome.
Wedding and Married Life
They tied the knot on October 19, 2019. This happened in Mallorca. The ceremony was held at La Fortaleza in Port de Pollença. It was a historic and beautiful location. It had a total of 350 guests in attendance. This included the Spanish royalty.
After getting married, their life was private to the general public. Xisca continued to keep a low profile, whereas Nadal continued his professional life with his wife’s backing.
Motherhood and Family Life
Xisca and Rafael Nadal welcomed their first child, Rafael Nadal Jr., in October 2022. The couple has entered a new phase of their lives as parents.
In August of 2025, the couple welcomed their second son, Miquel Nadal. The family now is the biggest focus, particularly as Nadal transitions into the latter part of his tennis playing life.
READ ALSO: Rafael Nadal Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Personality and Public Image
Maria Francisca Perello is known for her minimalist lifestyle and her love for her private life. She hardly attends any matches and tries to avoid taking pictures. Nadal has revealed that he fully understands her desire.
Everyone looks up to her because she remained independent and occupied with meaningful work rather than fame. She is portrayed as a kind, thoughtful, and steady person.
Why She Stands Out
Xisca Perello is remarkable because she has taken a different road. She is in a relationship with one of the greatest athletes in the world while still maintaining her individuality. It is important to note that power doesn’t necessarily have to be in the limelight. By love, patience, and purpose, Maria Francisca Perello is an all-important and silently significant presence in the life of Rafael Nadal.
