Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Rafael Nadal has denied rumours that he plans to run for president of Real Madrid after reports linked him to the role following a disappointing season for the Spanish club.Speculation started after current president Florentino Perez announced fresh club elections. With Madrid ending the season without a major trophy, many fans were unhappy, and reports claimed Nadal could enter the race to replace Perez. However, the tennis legend quickly rejected the claims.
“I have read reports that link me to possible candidacies for the presidency of Real Madrid. I would like to clarify that these reports are not true,” Nadal posted on X.Perez also made it clear that he has no plans to resign despite criticism from supporters after a poor campaign. Real Madrid lost the La Liga title to rivals Barcelona and were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League by Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.“I am not going to resign,” Perez said during a press conference.The long-time club president avoided discussing transfers or coaching changes and instead focused on defending his overall record at the club. Perez reminded fans that Real Madrid have won multiple trophies during his leadership across football and basketball.“I sometimes share the frustration that this year we haven’t managed to win anything,” Perez admitted. “However, I must remind you that, with me as president, we’ve won 66 titles.”As pressure grows around the club, Perez insisted that anyone unhappy with his leadership is free to contest the elections.“Why do they want to get rid of me? Just because a few people are saying they want to stand for election? Let them stand.”
