Maria Francisca Perello, wife of Rafael Nadal, has an extensive background in the athletic world — first as a sports marketer in London, and now as the project director for the Rafael Nadal Foundation. However, alongside that is a sharp sense of personal style that strikes the ideal chord of versatile and chic. From elegant formal pumps to comfy everyday sneakers, we’re taking a look back at Perello’s style growth over the years.
In 2010, Perello was spotted strolling in Manhattan while on a trip with Nadal. A shopping excursion called for a bohemian casual outfit: a green sleeveless top, dark blue jeans and a brown leather reptile-embossed clutch, as well as brown suede boots.
Maria Francisca Perello strolls in New York City on Sept. 14, 2010. CREDIT: SL2010
A 2010 press conference for the Rafael Nadal Foundation — where the tennis star announced the Foundation’s first event, “Rafael Nadal Vs Roger Federer: Unite For Children” — found Perello in Madrid. For the occasion, she was all business in a white blazer and tan trousers, complete with brown lace-up ankle boots with rounded toes and heels totaling 4 inches in height.
Maria Francisca Perello attends a press conference in Madrid, Spain where Rafael Nadal announces the first event held by the Rafael Nadal Foundation on Oct. 22, 2010. CREDIT: Korpa / Flynetpictures.com / SplashNews.com
In 2012, Perello arrived with Nadal in London for the “A Night With The Stars” Barclays ATP World Tour Finals Gala. For the occasion, she wore a black long-sleeved dress over sheer tights with sparkling drop earrings. Completing her formal look were black T-strap peep-toe pumps with thin platform soles and 4-inch heels, as well as front embellishments.
Rafael Nadal and Maria Francisca Perello arrive at ‘A Night With The Stars’ Barclays ATP world Tour Finals Gala at Battersea Power Station in London on July 11, 2012. CREDIT: Zed Jameson / FameFlynet.uk.com / SplashNews.com
In 2014, Nadal and Perello jetted to Cancun for a beachside vacation. Perello hit the sand in a black bikini with a sporty pink cap, as well as a large beach tote and chic black thong sandals.
Rafael Nadal and Maria Francisca Perello hit the beach in Cancun, Mexico on March 3, 2014. CREDIT: SplashNews.com
While traveling to Paris in 2015, Perello strolled with Nadal in a gray T-shirt with dark blue cuffed jeans. Black athletic sneakers and a gray leather Balenciaga City handbag with gold hardware finished her off-duty ensemble.
Rafael Nadal and Francisca Perello stroll in Paris on June 4, 2015. CREDIT: Visual / FameFlynet.uk.com / SplashNews.com
In 2021, Perello hit the red carpet with Nadal for his Foundation’s 10th anniversary celebration. Dressed formally for the occasion, Perello wore a black velvet long-sleeved gown with a circular side cutout and thigh-high slit, plus diamond stud earrings and a silver Bulgari clutch. A set of sparkly silver pointed-toe pumps finished her look.
Rafael Nadal and Maria Francisca Perello attend the Rafael Nadal Foundation’s 10th anniversary celebration at the Italian Consulate in Madrid on Nov. 18, 2021. CREDIT: José Oliva/ASSOCIATED PRESS
A trip to Mallorca in 2022 called for a chic travel outfit, which consisted of a gray sweatshirt and white pants for Perello. Chunky beige, tan and white sneakers finished her casual daytime attire.
Maria Francisca Perello and Rafael Nadal arrive in Mallorca on June 6, 2022. CREDIT: GTres / SplashNews.com
Discover Perello’s husband, Rafael Nadal’s, signing with Tommy Hilfiger in the gallery.
