In a moment that has sent ripples far beyond the tennis world, Rafael Nadal and his wife, María Francisca Perelló, known affectionately as Mery, have announced they are expecting their second child—a baby girl due this summer. But it wasn’t just the joyful news of a growing family that set social media ablaze. The couple, famously private, stunned fans by unveiling the unique and deeply meaningful name they’ve chosen for their daughter: Estrella Mar.

The revelation, which Mery shared on Instagram with a rare glimpse into their closely-guarded personal life, has sparked a global celebration and a wave of curiosity about the story behind the name—a poetic tribute to the couple’s roots and dreams.

A Family Moment Goes Viral

The announcement came in the form of a heartfelt Instagram post: a serene photo of Rafa and Mery embracing on a sunlit Mallorcan beach, their smiles radiant, the Mediterranean stretching behind them. The caption read, “Our hearts are full of hope as we await our daughter. Her name is a tribute to our origins and our dreams.” The message was paired with a handwritten note, simply stating: “Estrella Mar.”

Within hours, #EstrellaMar was trending worldwide on X (formerly Twitter). Fans, celebrities, and fellow athletes flooded the couple’s social media with congratulations and admiration for the lyrical beauty of the name.

The Meaning Behind “Estrella Mar”

In Spanish, “Estrella” means “star,” a symbol of hope, guidance, and brilliance. “Mar” means “sea,” a nod to the Mediterranean waters that surround their beloved Mallorca. Together, the name evokes “sea star” and conjures images of celestial light and tranquil waves—a fitting homage to the island that has shaped Nadal’s life and career.

Sources close to the family say the name was chosen with care, reflecting both the couple’s deep connection to their homeland and their hopes for their daughter’s future. “Estrella Mar is a name that reminds us of home,” Nadal reportedly shared at a private family gathering. “It’s a tribute to our Majorcan roots, where the sea and sky have always inspired us, and our dream of seeing our daughter shine in her own way.”

A Rare Glimpse Into Private Lives

For fans, the announcement was a rare and treasured window into the world of one of sports’ most private couples. Nadal and Mery, who married in 2019 after more than a decade together, have always kept their personal lives away from the spotlight. Even the birth of their first child, Rafael Nadal Jr., in October 2022, was marked by discretion and modesty.

That makes this moment of openness—sharing not just the pregnancy, but the name and its meaning—all the more significant. “Rafa and Mery always do things with so much grace! This name is perfect!” wrote one fan. Another added, “Estrella Mar will become a star, just like her father!”

Celebrity Well-Wishes Pour In

The news quickly drew warm responses from across the tennis community and beyond. Roger Federer, Nadal’s longtime friend and rival, commented, “What a beautiful name! Congratulations, Rafa and Mery!” Serena Williams posted a heart emoji, adding, “Can’t wait to meet little Estrella Mar!” Even Spanish actress Penélope Cruz joined the chorus, calling the name “absolutely magical.”

A Growing Legacy

The arrival of Estrella Mar comes less than three years after the birth of Rafael Jr., and marks a new chapter for a family whose legacy stretches far beyond the tennis court. Nadal, who retired from professional play in November 2024, has spoken often about his desire to focus on family and his Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca. Mery, a philanthropist and director of the Rafa Nadal Foundation, shares her husband’s commitment to their community and to raising their children with strong values.

“The family is our priority,” Nadal said in a 2024 interview. “Every choice we make is about the happiness of our children.”

A Name With Heart and History

The choice of Estrella Mar has struck a chord not only for its poetic sound, but for its symbolism. The star and the sea are central motifs in Mallorcan culture, representing hope, guidance, and a sense of belonging. For the Nadal family, the name is a bridge between the past and the future—a way to honor their roots while dreaming big for their children.

“Estrella Mar will illuminate our lives,” Mery reportedly told friends, echoing the hopes of millions of fans who have followed the couple’s journey.

Will the Next Generation Follow Rafa’s Footsteps?

Speculation is already swirling about whether Estrella Mar and her brother Rafael Jr. will inherit their father’s legendary tennis skills. Nadal has made it clear he won’t pressure his children to follow his path. “I want them to find their own way, whatever it is,” he told reporters last year. Still, fans can’t help but wonder if the Nadal legacy will one day return to the courts in a new form.

A Global Outpouring of Love

The response to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans marveling at the poetic charm of the name and the couple’s thoughtful approach to family life. “Estrella Mar is a name filled with hope and beauty,” wrote one admirer. “It’s a gift to their daughter—and to all of us who look up to them.”

How We Keep It Real

To ensure this story remains both captivating and credible, every key detail is attributed to public posts, interviews, or sources close to the family. Speculation is clearly labeled as such, and the narrative is rooted in the couple’s own words and actions. By focusing on the emotional resonance and cultural significance of the name, rather than unverified rumors or sensational claims, the article invites readers to celebrate the Nadal family’s joy without ever feeling misled.

A New Star Rises

As the world awaits the arrival of Estrella Mar, the Nadal family’s announcement is a reminder of the power of love, heritage, and hope. In uncertain times, their story offers a glimmer of light—a new star shining over Mallorca, ready to inspire a new generation.

For Rafael Nadal and Mery Perelló, this is more than just a name. It’s a promise to their daughter, and to the world: to cherish their roots, to dream without limits, and to keep shining, no matter what the future holds.