MADRID – On Thursday, King of Spain, Philipe VI, recognized the noble title of Marquis to the great tennis player Rafael Nadal, in recognition of his contribution to the nation through his sporting skills, according to a royal family statement.
Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion who retired last year, was among six individuals who were praised as part of the celebrations marking the 10th anniversary of the throne.
Such titles include pop-rock singers Luz Casal and Paralympic Swimmer Teresa Perales.
“They are sources of pride for Spain and are permanent reference points for values that stimulate our society,” the Palace said.
Former world No. 1 Nadal, 39, holds the title of Marx of Llevant de Mallorca, the island where he was born and resided. The title can be inherited by his descendants.
Nadal, who won a record 14 times at the French Open, was commemorated last month in Roland Garros’s permanent footprint on centre court.