As the world’s top seeds like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz battle it out for the 2026 Madrid Open trophy, the biggest applause from the crowd at Caja Magica this week wasn’t for an ace or a cross-court winner. It was for a three-year-old in a miniature head-to-toe Nike outfit. It was for Rafael Nadal Jr., who hit his father Rafa’s backhand like a pro.
Affectionately nicknamed “Baby Rafa” by fans, one of the training sessions in Madrid turned into a viral moment among Internet users. As his father prepared for his final home appearances, the toddler took to the red clay with a racket almost as big as himself and flashed a backhand that seemed strangely familiar to Manacor supporters.
Watch Rafael Nadal Jr.’s ‘Pro Level’ Backhand!
Fans began to admit that it felt like the torch was being passed. Under the watchful eyes of his mother, Mery Perello, and his father, who gave birth to his son on July 17th October 8, 2022, The youngster cleared the net several times to the delight of the fans in the stands.
Baby Rafa Nadal playing tennis is a sight to behold.
Hitting the ball so well at just 3 years old.
I heard it runs in the family 🇪🇸🥹 pic.twitter.com/NiaVblwglj
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) April 23, 2026
Tennis legends and current stars simply got involved. Iga Swiatek, a well-known Nadal superfan, was seen smiling on the sidelines.
Rafa’s philosophy on sports and parenting
“I mean, I want them to play a sport, but honestly it doesn’t matter what sport,” Rafael Nadal once said in an interview with The Masters. “I think it’s good for education to grow up in a sports atmosphere, it’s good to grow up with the right values, and I don’t care if my son only plays soccer, golf, tennis, basketball or something like that. I think it’s good for coordination and it’s good that they’re active.” he added.
And it’s no wonder that baby Rafa, unlike other children, already doesn’t spend much time in front of the TV. “You don’t stay in front of the TV all day. I love being outside, exercising and being active,” Rafa said. “I think that’s the best thing, and then if one day they want to try something different in a sport, that’s fantastic.”
