Rafael Nadal has wasted no time in making a major move just days after retiring from tennis with his hotel chain, ZEL Born, announcing a new location for one of their hotels
Rafael Nadal called time on his 23-year tennis career earlier this week
Just days after hanging up his tennis racket, Rafael Nadal has revealed the new location of his hotel chain.
The tennis legend played his final match on Tuesday (November 19) following a singles defeat by Dutch player Botic van de Zandschlup.
His retirement was confirmed after Spain’s doubles loss to the Netherlands, with Carlos Alcaraz and Marcel Granollers succumbing to Van de Zandschulp and Wesley Koolhof, who is also retiring this week.
Not one to rest on his laurels, the 38-year-old quickly announced major plans for his hotel chain, ZEL Born, revealing a new location in the Dominican Republic.
Nadal co-founded the chain with Gabriel Escarrer, CEO of Melia Hotels International, last year. Their vision was inspired by traditional Mediterranean homes and their outdoor culture.
The luxurious ZEL Punta Cana, their first hotel outside Spain, will be located on Cortecito Beach. The stunning spot on the Bavaro coast is a dream destination for any holidaymaker looking to enjoy sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The hotel, boasting 190 rooms, is the third of its kind, following the opening of ZEL Mallorca last year and ZEL Costa Brava earlier this summer.
Escarrer shared his vision, crafted with Nadal, on why the Caribbean was their top choice for business expansion. “We consider ZEL to be a true Mediterranean embassy and we hope to introduce our lifestyle experience in Punta Cana,” he said.
“Together with Rafa, we decided to embark on this adventure to share our laid-back values and warm culture with our guests from around the world. The Caribbean is a charming destination that perfectly complements the ZEL brand, creating a holiday retreat unlike any other.”
The 38-year-old retired from tennis earlier this week after Spain’s elimination from the Davis Cup (
(Image: Getty))
Guests at the resort will have no shortage of activities to indulge in, including unwinding at the spa, taking a dip in one of the two swimming pools, or joining yoga sessions in ‘The Studios’ three spaces dedicated to wellness, fitness, and training. Tennis enthusiasts will appreciate Nadal’s touch with five tennis courts available, while golfers can hit the fairways at Cocotal Country Club’s golf course.
ZEL Hotels has ambitious plans, with an urban hotel set to open on Madrid’s Gran Via and ventures into Mexico on the horizon. By 2026, the brand aims to launch a new location in Albania.
