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Rafael Nadal reveals what his reaction was when Rory McIlroy won The Masters last year
TL;DR
Rafael Nadal expressed his enthusiasm for golf after retiring from tennis, particularly enjoying watching Rory McIlroy win The Masters last year. At 39, Nadal has embraced golf as a more relaxed pastime.
Photo by Joel Marklund/Augusta National/Getty Images
Rafael Nadal is one of tennis’ greatest-ever players, but has seemingly transferred that passion and love into golf since retiring.
After all, with so much more free time, it makes perfect sense for the 39-year-old to have taken up a far more relaxed and less physically demanding pastime.
His passion for golf extends far beyond just playing too, having been pictured in Augusta watching the ongoing Masters event.
And now, speaking to ESPN, he has discussed this event and last year’s iconic tournament, which saw Rory McIlroy finally claim his green jacket.
Rafael Nadal admits he cried when Rory McIlroy won The Masters in 2026
Asked about McIlroy, Nadal began by claiming: “Yesterday was an amazing experience, first time here in the Masters.
“I had the chance to watch the round of Rory [McIlroy], and yeah, he played unbelievable, so hopefully he can keep going.”
Photo by Ben Jared/PGA TOUR via Getty Images
Then, asked what made him start supporting the Northern Irishman, he added: “I love his swing since the beginning, then I was able to meet him a couple of times, a long time ago. And I love him as a person too. I think he’s natural, he’s humble. I love his character, and of course, he had one of the most spectacular games that I ever saw.”
Nadal concluded by sharing his reaction to watching McIlroy winning his first Masters last year, recounting: “Oh, yeah, I am an emotional guy, so I was, I had tears in my eyes for such a long time.
“Even I watched his documentary now, and I finished the documentary crying, so, yeah, I mean, I am a sports guy, and sports create emotions on people.”
What is Rafael Nadal’s golf handicap?
Nadal is far from the first tennis superstar to make the move into golf, both during and after his professional career.
Andy Murray is another recent convert, whilst Carlos Alcaraz sneaks in a round whenever he can fit it into his busy schedule.
Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
However, none seem to have had as much success as Nadal has in the golfing world, given the Spaniard is actually a +0.5 handicapper.
And, during day one of The Masters on Thursday, he actually revealed that he shot even par from the member tees and 80 from the tournament tees when playing the Augusta National.
Q&A
What did Rafael Nadal say about Rory McIlroy winning The Masters?
Rafael Nadal revealed his positive reaction to Rory McIlroy's victory at The Masters last year, showcasing his enthusiasm for golf.
Why has Rafael Nadal taken up golf after retiring from tennis?
Rafael Nadal has taken up golf as a more relaxed and less physically demanding pastime, enjoying the extra free time after his tennis career.
How old is Rafael Nadal and what is his current interest in sports?
Rafael Nadal is 39 years old and has developed a passion for golf, often attending events like The Masters.
