Mallorca, July 2025 – Rafael Nadal, one of the most iconic names in world sport and the eternal pride of Spain, once again demonstrates that his greatness extends far beyond the tennis court. In a moving announcement made this Monday from his residence in Porto Cristo, on the island of Mallorca , Nadal revealed that he will donate 12.5 million euros to children with childhood cancer, as part of the new charity campaign called “15 Days of Hope . “
The initiative, which will begin on August 1, seeks not only to raise funds for pediatric cancer treatments, but also to provide unforgettable experiences for young patients and their families with events, surprise visits, and a comprehensive emotional and psychological support program.
“These children are fighting a battle tougher than any Grand Slam final. They deserve to feel hope, joy, and strength. This campaign is just a small step toward letting them know they are not alone,” Nadal said, visibly moved.
A commitment that comes from the heart
Nadal, who has been an ambassador for multiple social causes for years through the Rafa Nadal Foundation, has always shown a special sensitivity toward children . But this time, as he himself confessed, the motivation was personal:
“A few months ago, I visited a pediatric oncology unit in Barcelona. Seeing the courage of those children and the dedication of their families left a lasting impression on me. I left there knowing I had to do something bigger, something that would stay in their hearts.”
The “15 Days of Hope” campaign will be carried out in collaboration with hospitals throughout Spain, medical associations, and NGOs specializing in pediatric oncology. The goal is not only to fund treatments, but also to create a space of joy and normalcy amid the medical struggles these children face.
A surprise that promises to touch the soul
One of the elements that has generated the most excitement after the announcement is the mention of a “special surprise” that Nadal and his team are preparing for the children participating in the campaign.
“I can’t say much yet, but we want to light up these little ones’ faces with something they’ll never forget. A magical moment that makes them feel like heroes, because they are,” Nadal said.
Rumors indicate that it could be a private event in Mallorca with various figures from the world of sports and music , or even the recreation of a “magical village” with activities designed especially for children , although there is no official confirmation yet.
The direct impact of donation
The €12.5 million donation from Rafael Nadal will be administered through his foundation and distributed in three key areas:
- Advanced medical treatment: Funding urgent interventions, high-cost medications, and access to international clinical trials for children diagnosed with cancer in Spain.
- Emotional and family support: Psychological support programs, shelters for parents traveling from other communities, and alternative therapies (art, music, adapted sports).
- Transformative experiences: From visits from athletes and artists to special summer camps for children in remission, focused on restoring self-esteem and joy.
According to preliminary estimates, more than 2,000 children could directly benefit from the program during the first year.
Reactions from the world of sport and society
The news of the donation has generated a wave of positive reactions in Spain and around the world . Figures such as Pau Gasol, Iker Casillas, Garbiñe Muguruza, and Fernando Alonso have publicly expressed their admiration and support for the cause.
- “Rafa is a champion off the court too. His heart is as big as his talent,” Casillas wrote on his X account (formerly Twitter).
- “With actions like this, sport becomes a driving force for real change. Thank you, Rafa,” wrote the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC).
For their part, thousands of citizens have begun to join the campaign through symbolic donations and messages of encouragement on social media using the hashtag #15DaysOfHope.
Nadal, the human legend
At 39 years old, and after announcing his retirement from the professional circuit just a few months ago, Rafael Nadal has begun a new era that does not revolve around trophies or rankings, but rather leaving a lasting human mark .
Living peacefully in his native Porto Cristo, surrounded by family and nature, Nadal has chosen to dedicate himself fully to his foundation, to the training of young tennis players at his academy, and—now—to large-scale social projects like this one .
Conclusion
“15 Days of Hope” is not just a charity campaign. It reflects the soul of a champion who has never forgotten his responsibility as a public figure , who has managed to transform his fame into real opportunities for those most in need.
With this donation of 12.5 million euros, Rafael Nadal not only lights up the faces of thousands of children fighting for their lives, but also the hearts of a country that today, more than ever, considers him a true national hero .
And as he himself said at the end of his speech:
“We may not be able to win every battle against cancer, but we can make sure every child knows that their fight matters… and that they are not alone.”
