Rafael Nadal has turned back the clock to Spain’s greatest night in football as La Roja prepare for another shot at World Cup glory. Ahead of Sunday’s FIFA World Cup 2026 final against Argentina, the 22-time Grand Slam champion sent an emotional message to the national team while recalling the unforgettable triumph in South Africa 16 years ago.
Spain will take on defending champions Argentina in New York, hoping to win only the second FIFA World Cup in the nation’s history. Writing on X before the final, Nadal spoke about his lifelong love for football and wished Luis de la Fuente’s side the very best for what could become another historic night.
“Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been one of my greatest passions,” Nadal wrote.
“I’ve always enjoyed playing, watching games, and cheering on our national team. I still remember the excitement of experiencing the 2010 final in South Africa. We’ll never forget it.”
The tennis legend then shifted his focus to Sunday’s showdown against Lionel Messi’s Argentina, saying Spain had another opportunity to create memories that would last forever.
“Tomorrow we have another chance to enjoy one of those matches that make history against a national team and a country that I respect and admire greatly,” Nadal wrote.
“Best of luck, Spain.”
As one of Spain’s most celebrated sporting icons and a lifelong Real Madrid supporter, Nadal has rarely hidden his passion for football. His message quickly resonated with supporters hoping La Roja can recreate the magic of Johannesburg in 2010.
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Nadal is not the only Spanish tennis star caught up in World Cup fever.
Carlos Alcaraz is also expected to cheer on the national team, with reports suggesting the World No. 3 will travel to New York for the final despite currently recovering from a wrist injury.
Alcaraz has followed Spain’s run closely throughout the tournament and celebrated their semi-final victory over France earlier this week. The 23-year-old is on a break from competition as he works towards returning for the North American hard-court swing, where he will defend the US Open title later this year.
Spain will now attempt to end Argentina’s reign as world champions and lift the FIFA World Cup for only the second time. With messages of support pouring in from sporting greats like Nadal and Alcaraz, Luis de la Fuente’s side heads into the biggest match in world football carrying the hopes of an entire nation.
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