Rafa Nadal’s sister Mirabel has provided a positive update about his pregnant wife Xisca, while reports have emerged that the couple are expecting a baby boy.
Xisca was recently hospitalised in Mallorca due to complications with the pregnancy, forcing Nadal to make the agonising choice between staying with her or flying to London to take part in Roger Federer’s farewell event at the Laver Cup.
BEAUTIFUL: Mirka Federer act comes to light after Laver Cup
‘SAD’: Djokovic news leaves tennis fans shattered ahead of ATP return
He ultimately chose to play at the Laver Cup, teaming up to play doubles with Federer for the final match of his great friend and rival’s career.
Nadal later revealed the emotional toll the decision had taken on him after he was seen in tears following his match with Federer – a loss to Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe.
The doubles was the only match Nadal played at the event, flying home immediately afterwards to be by Xisca’s side.
On Thursday, Nadal’s sister Mirabel – who has also been by Xisca’s side during her stay in hospital – offered some encouraging words about the situation.
Speaking after a ceremony in Madrid attended by Spanish Queen Letizia in which she represented the Rafa Nadal Foundation, Maribel said Xisca is doing “very well”.
Reports also emerged on Thursday that Rafa and Xisca will be having a baby boy, due in October.
Speaking on Friday night after his match at the Laver Cup, Nadal opened up on how difficult it was for him to leave Xisca.
“They have been difficult weeks, few hours of sleep, a little stress in general,” he admitted.
“The situation is a little more complicated than usual at home. I have had to deal with a different pressure than what you are used to in professional life.
“Luckily everything is fine, much calmer, and in that sense, I have been able to come here, which was important to me.”
Maribel Nadal and Xisca Perello, pictured here watching Rafa Nadal at the Madrid Open.
Maribel Nadal (centre) and Xisca Perello (R) watch Rafa Nadal at the Madrid Open. (Photo By Francisco Guerra/Europa Press via Getty Images)
Nadal only made the decision to play at the Laver Cup when he learned that it would be Federer’s farewell.
