In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, Xisca Perelló—wife of tennis legend Rafael Nadal—has come forward with explosive accusations against Novak Djokovic, alleging a disturbing series of sexist remarks and plots surrounding her and Nadal’s newborn child. The claims have ignited a firestorm of controversy, leaving fans divided and the tennis community in utter disbelief.
According to Perelló, the events unfolded during a private gathering after a charity tournament in early April. What started as light-hearted banter between players reportedly took a dark turn when Djokovic, allegedly inebriated and surrounded by a group of male players and sponsors, began making “highly inappropriate comments” about Nadal’s parenting choices and Xisca’s role as a mother.
“I’ve stayed silent for years out of respect for the sport and the people involved,” Perelló stated in a surprise interview aired on Spanish national television. “But when someone crosses the line—when your newborn child becomes the target of private jokes and sexist plotting—you can’t stay silent anymore.”
Among the most disturbing allegations is a claim that Djokovic joked about starting a “fatherhood ranking system” in the ATP, mocking Nadal for taking paternity leave and suggesting Xisca was “keeping him on a leash.” Sources close to the Nadal family revealed that the incident deeply affected the couple, with Rafael reportedly confronting Djokovic off-camera.
Although no footage of the alleged conversation has surfaced, Perelló says she has witnesses who can confirm the sexist remarks. She also hinted at a “long-standing pattern” of subtle digs and competitive toxicity that extended beyond the court.
Tennis fans and commentators around the world were quick to react. Social media exploded with hashtags like #StandWithXisca and #DjokovicOut, with many demanding an official response from the ATP and Novak Djokovic himself. “This goes beyond rivalry,” wrote one Twitter user. “It’s a question of respect, of decency. If these claims are true, Djokovic needs to be held accountable.”
The ATP released a brief statement acknowledging the seriousness of the situation:
“We are aware of the recent allegations made by Mrs. Perelló and are currently gathering information to assess the next steps. The ATP remains committed to upholding a respectful and inclusive environment for all.”
As of now, Djokovic has not issued a formal statement. However, his spokesperson denied the accusations, calling them “baseless, defamatory, and designed to damage Novak’s reputation at a time when he’s focused on competition.” The spokesperson further suggested that the comments may have been misunderstood or taken out of context.
Despite the denial, the damage may already be done. Sports ethics experts note that even unproven allegations can carry heavy weight in a sport that values honor, especially given Djokovic’s past controversies—from his anti-vaccine stance to his disqualification at the 2020 US Open.
Rafael Nadal, known for his dignified demeanor, has yet to publicly address the situation. However, sources say he is standing firmly behind his wife and is “disappointed and hurt” by the alleged betrayal from a long-time rival.
This scandal arrives at a time when tennis is attempting to foster a more inclusive, family-friendly image—highlighting the roles of female coaches, supporting maternity leave policies for athletes, and encouraging gender equity in all facets of the sport.
For now, all eyes are on Djokovic. Will he come forward with an explanation or apology, or will this become yet another controversy added to the polarizing legacy of one of the game’s greatest yet most divisive figures?
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: this is more than a personal feud. It’s a turning point in the sport’s conversation about respect, rivalry, and the role of women in the world of elite tennis.
