Rafael Nadal's acclaimed Netflix documentary Rafa has received a nomination for the 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards. The documentary follows Nadal's final season on the ATP Tour before his retirement in October 2024.
What happened?
The four-part series offers unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to one of the greatest careers in tennis history. Released on May 29, Rafa combines footage from Nadal's final months as a professional with never-before-seen moments from his personal archives.
Why it matters for Rafael Nadal
The nomination marks another milestone for the production, directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Zach Heinzerling and produced by Netflix and Skydance Sports. Nadal shared an emotional message on social media, thanking everyone involved in the project and describing the documentary as one of the most personal stories ever told about his life and career.
The documentary features exclusive access to Nadal's family, coaching team, and inner circle, alongside appearances from fellow tennis legends Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. On July 9, 2026, Nadal admitted he was both honoured and grateful after learning that Rafa had been shortlisted for one of television's most prestigious awards.
What comes next?
The winners of the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards will be announced on September 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, where Rafa will compete for Outstanding Documentary Series. Nadal stressed that the recognition belonged not only to him but also to the many people who helped bring the documentary to life.
Rafa focuses primarily on Nadal's final season on the ATP Tour before retiring in October 2024, while also exploring his life away from competition. Through exclusive footage from his personal archives and unprecedented access to his family and team, the documentary offers a closer look at the man behind one of tennis' greatest careers.
Nadal thanked the organisations and production teams behind the series, including Netflix, Skydance, and the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, recognising the collaborative effort that made the project possible. The 22-time Grand Slam champion described the documentary as a very personal part of his journey, and none of it would have been possible without everyone who was part of it.
The nomination is a significant achievement for the documentary, which has been widely praised for its intimate look at Nadal's final chapter both on and off the court. As Nadal prepares for the Emmy Awards, he remains grateful for the recognition and looks forward to the announcement of the winners on September 14.