Jannik Sinner and Rafael Nadal play surprise match at the Bernabeu with Real Madrid stars

Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images

Jannik Sinner and Rafael Nadal play surprise match at the Bernabeu with Real Madrid stars

Originally posted on HITC | By Filipe Guedes | Last updated Apr 23, 2026 4:15 PM ET

A clay court has been temporarily built inside the Santiago Bernabeu, transforming one of football’s most iconic stadiums into a tennis venue.

The initiative is part of the Madrid Open, offering players a unique training environment.

The court will be available from Thursday, 23 April through to 30 April. It has been specifically designed to allow players to prepare while also showcasing tennis in a high-profile and unconventional setting.

Organisers confirmed the project aims to bring tennis closer to a wider audience, blending two global sports. The setting has already attracted attention, with several stars making early use of the facility.

Jannik Sinner and Rafael Nadal share Bernabeu court with Real Madrid stars

Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

That attention increased further this Thursday when Jannik Sinner and Rafael Nadal were spotted practising together at the Bernabeu. The session quickly became more notable due to the company they kept.

Real Madrid players Jude Bellingham and Thibaut Courtois joined the session, taking part in an informal match that blended football and tennis worlds. Madrid president Florentino Perez was also present, watching from the umpire’s chair.

Nadal’s presence was expected given his well-known support for Real Madrid. However, Sinner’s involvement alongside active La Liga stars created a crossover moment that few anticipated.

Aquí, en el Bernabéu. Parece coña pero no lo es. Partido de tenis.

Un dobles Sinner y Bellingham vs Rafa Nadal y Courtois.

Con Florentino de juez de silla.

Tremenda imagen. pic.twitter.com/hLdkzDrH4P
— Álvaro de Grado (@AlvarodeGrado) April 23, 2026

The Italian arrives in Madrid with significant momentum and a clear objective, as he is aiming to achieve a feat that has not previously been recorded in the sport.

Sinner is set to begin his campaign tomorrow against Benjamin Bonzi, currently ranked world No. 104.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: