Rafael Nadal and Shakira: That time he was her music video muse

Rafael Nadal has been married to Mery Perelló since 2019, with the two having a solid relationship, a son, and another child on the way. Years before that, Nadal starred in one of Shakira's most discussed music videos, prompting rumors of a romantic relationship that lasted years. While these rumors have never been confirmed, their dynamic intrigued people from all over the world, prompting the two to address each other and their relationship in numerous interviews.

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Nadal was featured in "Gypsy," one of the lead singles of "She Wolf," her 2009 eight studio album. The music video was released in 2010 and earned critical acclaim, with viewers obsessed with Shakira and Nadal's chemistry. 

Directed by Jaume de Laiguana, who previously directed Shakira's video "No," "Gyspy" opens with Shakira playing the harmonica and wearing an outfit reminiscent of her breakthrough song in the US, "Whenever, Wherever." The clip shows her spending time with Nadal, who's wearing a simple outfit of a white t-shirt and jeans. The two are seen lying together on the floor, holding each other and laughing, concluding with a kiss. 

You can check out the full video below.

Nadal and Shakira shared their respect and admiration for each other

Following the video's release, both Nadal and Shakira were asked about their relationship and why they decided to collaborate together. "'Gypsy' was inspired by my own life, the way I've lived it, the places I've gone to, the people I've met," she said in a press conference for that year's Premios Juventud. 

"And well, Nadal... I don't know, I thought he would look really good in the video and I think it was good!" she said, prompting laughs from the journalists.

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In the case of Nadal, he revealed that he admired Shakira very much and that starring in the video was a no-brainer. "I had a great time. It's been a special experience. Not everyone gets the chance to live something like this with an artist like Shakira, whom I admire. I had a great time and I loved meeting her," he said. 

Since, the pair have remained friends, with Shakira spotted attending some of his matches and Nadal photographed at her concerts. 

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