In a world where sport and philanthropy often intersect, few examples are as inspiring as the Rafa Nadal Foundation. Recently, the foundation achieved a monumental victory at the prestigious Laureus Sport for Good 2024 Awards, where it was recognized for its tireless efforts to improve people’s lives through sport. Alongside his wife Mery, Rafa Nadal took the stage to accept the award, cementing his legacy on and off the court.

The Laureus Sport for Good Awards are renowned for rewarding athletes, organisations and initiatives that use sport as a tool to create positive change in the world. This award recognises the profound impact that sport can have, not only in fostering physical development, but also in promoting education, health and social inclusion. In this context, the remarkable contribution of the Rafa Nadal Foundation is nothing short of exceptional.

Since its inception, the Rafa Nadal Foundation has been committed to promoting social inclusion through sport, particularly among young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. The foundation aims to provide these children with the tools they need to build a better future, drawing on the values ​​of hard work, respect and discipline that are integral to sport. From improving access to education and healthcare to supporting mental and emotional well-being, the foundation has changed countless lives, giving young people the opportunity to thrive in their personal and academic lives.

Upon receiving the award, Rafa shared his thoughts on what this recognition meant to him and his foundation. “This award is not just for me, it is for the entire Rafa Nadal Foundation team who work tirelessly every day to make a difference in the lives of young people. We are fortunate to be able to use the power of sport to give back to society, and this honor is a reflection of our collective efforts,” said Nadal.

The Rafa Nadal Foundation is distinguished by its holistic approach to philanthropy. The foundation’s initiatives go beyond simply providing access to sport; it creates environments where children can develop life skills, gain confidence and learn to overcome obstacles—skills that will serve them well after they leave the playing field.

While Rafa Nadal’s name is synonymous with tennis greatness, his wife, Mery Perelló, has played a key role in the foundation’s success. Often working behind the scenes, Mery has been instrumental in shaping the foundation’s vision and ensuring its continued success. Throughout the 2024 Laureus Sport for Good Awards ceremony, it was clear that Mery shares Rafa’s passion for using sport as a force for positive change. Together, they make a formidable team, not only as life partners, but also as co-leaders of a global philanthropic effort.

Mery, who is equally dedicated to the cause, expressed her pride in the foundation’s work and the recognition from Laureus. “Being part of something that truly makes a difference in the world is incredibly rewarding. Rafa and I are both committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to reach their full potential. This award represents the collective efforts of everyone involved in the foundation,” she said.

The Laureus Sport for Good Award is a testament to the enormous impact that sport can have on society. While Rafa Nadal is a global tennis icon, it is his charitable work through the Rafa Nadal Foundation that has truly captured the world’s attention. By using tennis as a tool for change, Rafa and Mery have created a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the court.

Over the years, the Foundation has supported a variety of projects, from youth tennis programs to educational initiatives that help children in need. With a focus on youth empowerment, the Foundation promotes self-esteem, responsibility and teamwork, essential values ​​in sports and in life. In addition to promoting sports skills, the Rafa Nadal Foundation emphasizes the importance of education, mental health and creating a safe space for young people to thrive.

Through this work, the foundation has partnered with local organizations, schools and communities, amplifying its impact and expanding its reach. From providing scholarships to creating professional training programs, the Rafa Nadal Foundation continues to impact the lives of people around the world. The Laureus Sport for Good Award joins a growing list of accolades, highlighting the foundation’s exceptional contributions to the global community.

Rafa and Mery remain committed to expanding the reach of the Rafa Nadal Foundation, with plans to launch even more projects aimed at empowering young people. The foundation’s success is a testament to the belief that sport can play a transformative role in creating a better future for individuals and communities. With Rafa’s leadership and Mery’s unwavering support, the foundation is poised to continue making a profound difference in the years to come.

“The journey doesn’t end here,” Rafa said, expressing gratitude for Laureus’ recognition but stressing that the foundation’s mission continues. “Our goal is to continue to grow, to continue to help more young people and to use the platform we have to create a better world for the next generation.”

The Laureus Sport for Good Award is a well-deserved recognition of the Rafa Nadal Foundation’s remarkable achievements. By leveraging the global appeal of tennis and the core values ​​of sport, the foundation has become a beacon of hope for countless children around the world. Rafa and Mery’s commitment to this cause is a shining example of how sport can transcend competition and serve as a powerful tool for good. Their unwavering dedication to philanthropy is a reminder that even in a world full of challenges, a strong team can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.

With their shared vision for the future, the Rafa Nadal Foundation is poised to continue making a meaningful impact, and the recognition from the Laureus Sport for Good Awards will undoubtedly propel them further in their mission to change lives for the better, one child at a time.