The four-part series premiering May 29 offers unprecedented access to the 22-time Grand Slam champion, showing us the physical and emotional toll behind his legendary career.
Netflix has unveiled the trailer for “RAFA,” a documentary series about Rafael Nadal that premieres globally on May 29 – perfectly timed during the French Open, the tournament where he won a record 14 titles.
The four-episode series, produced by Skydance Sports and directed by Emmy winner Zach Heinzerling, offers unprecedented access to one of tennis’s greatest champions, following his journey from picking up his first racquet at age three to his final professional match in November 2024.
A must see for all tennis nerds.
What Makes It Different
Unlike traditional sports documentaries focused solely on highlight reels and victories, “RAFA” will show the invisible effort that sustained Nadal for over two decades: the physical toll, the constant pressure and the determination to keep competing even when his body seemed unable to continue.
“With Rafa’s story, triumph is expected; what surprised me was his willingness to reveal the uncertainty and vulnerability behind that greatness,” said director Zach Heinzerling in a statement.
Nadal himself showed his commitment to authenticity. “I sought to be transparent and honest,” the 39-year-old told AFP at a preview event in Madrid on Wednesday. “I never thought I’d do something like this, but when David Ellison [the producer] called and explained his vision, I was convinced this could be done properly.”
This is the story of @rafaelnadal.
— Netflix (@netflix) May 19, 2026
RAFA, a new documentary series offering unprecedented access to the legend, premieres May 29. pic.twitter.com/37RHlnAjDf
What’s Covered
The series follows Nadal and the team that stood by him throughout his career, his family, coaches and close advisors, revealing the level of dedication and sacrifice required to remain at the top for so long.
- His early beginnings in Manacor, Mallorca
- Historic dominance at Roland-Garros (14 titles from 2005-2022)
- The legendary rivalries with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
- His constant battle with injuries, particularly to his knees and feet. His relationship with his own body is one of the documentary’s central themes, described as “his most constant rival.”
- His 2024 season and final year on tour
- Never-before-seen archival footage from Nadal’s personal collection
The series features testimonies from tennis icons including Federer, Djokovic and John McEnroe, alongside intimate moments with Nadal’s family and inner circle.
Career in Numbers
The documentary chronicles a career that redefined what was possible in tennis, before his retirement:
- 22 Grand Slam titles (tied for second all-time with Novak Djokovic, behind only his 24)
- 14 French Open titles (more than any player has won at any single Grand Slam)
- 92 ATP singles titles
- 209 weeks at world No. 1
- Olympic gold medals in singles (2008) and doubles (2016)
- 5 Davis Cup titles with Spain
Beyond the numbers, Nadal became one of the most admired athletes across all sports.
Where to Watch
“RAFA” premieres on Netflix on May 29, 2026 and will be available globally in all regions where Netflix operates. The four episodes will drop simultaneously.
More info on IMDB here.
