Rafael Nadal clears the air on links with Real Madrid presidential race: 'I would like to clarify...'

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has dismissed rumours linking him with a possible run for the presidency of Real Madrid. Nadal, who is a well-known Real Madrid supporter, issued a clarification after several reports in the Spanish media claimed that he could emerge as a candidate to replace current club president Florentino Perez.

The rumours gained momentum after Perez held a dramatic and emotional press conference on Tuesday following Real Madrid's heavy defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona at Camp Nou a day earlier. The defeat also meant that Real Madrid finished another season without a major title. The result also increased pressure on Perez, who has faced criticism over the club’s recent performances.

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Nadal denies rumours

During the press conference, Perez addressed speculation surrounding both his future and his health. He also announced fresh elections for the club’s board of directors, leading to rumours about possible candidates who could challenge him for the post. Nadal’s name quickly began circulating on social media and in reports.

However, the 22-time Grand Slam champion has now denied any interest in entering the Real Madrid presidency race. "I have read reports that link me to possible candidacies for the presidency of Real Madrid. I would like to clarify that these reports are not true," Nadal wrote.

Perez's explosive press conference

Meanwhile, Perez appeared animated and argued with journalists, accusing them of "conspiring" to create a narrative of chaos while also railing against ticket-scalpers, fan ultras, LaLiga, referees and groups he said were trying to take over the club.

In a season of managerial instability, Xabi Alonso was dismissed after seven months in charge while his successor Alvaro Arbeloa was unable to halt the slide.

Real's struggles extended to Europe where they exited the Champions League at the quarter-final stage after defeat by Bayern Munich.

Off-field tensions compounded Real's difficulties, with captain Federico Valverde hospitalised after an altercation this month with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni.

When asked about speculation linking Mourinho - who managed the club between 2010 and 2013 - with a return, Perez was non-committal.

"We are not at that stage of the proceedings. We are at the stage of ensuring that Real Madrid belongs to its members," Perez said. "I'm not going to talk about coaches or players and I won't talk about sporting matters."

Several Real players, including Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe, have been booed by sections of the Bernabeu this season, while Perez has also faced fan discontent.

"I sometimes share the frustration that this year we haven't managed to win anything and we're not doing well at all, and I'm the first to admit I'd rather win everything. However, I must remind you that, with me as president, we've won 66 titles in football and basketball - 37 in football and 29 in basketball - including seven European Cups in football and three in basketball," he added.

"Why do they want to get rid of me? Just because a few people are saying they want to stand for election? Let them stand."

Perez is the most decorated president in Real's history, his 37 major titles surpassing the 32 won under Santiago Bernabeu. During his tenure, the club has secured seven Champions League trophies and seven LaLiga titles.

First elected in July 2000, Perez served until 2006 before returning in 2009. He has held the presidency since and was re-elected last year for a term set to run until 2029.

(With agency inputs)