The inquiry concerns the origin or significance of the name Miquel. - Inquiry regarding the moniker Miquel for infants.
Rafael Nadal, the tennis legend, has added a new chapter to his life with the arrival of his second child. His wife, Maria Francisca Perello, gave birth to a son named Miquel last Thursday [1][2][3]. This heartfelt decision to name their newborn reflects a deep personal tribute to Maria's late father, Miquel Perelló Mas, who passed away in April 2023.
The name Miquel holds significant meaning for the couple. It is of Hebrew origin, equivalent to the Biblical name Michael, meaning "Who is like God?" [1][5]. The name is also associated with one of the archangels, symbolizing triumph of good over evil, adding a spiritual and symbolic significance to their choice.
For Nadal, the decision to retire from professional tennis, announced in October 2024, has been a result of a challenging few years, particularly the last two [4]. This naming marks a new phase in his life, focusing on family, and keeping a connection with the paternal figure they dearly loved and missed.
Nadal and Maria already have an older son named Rafael Junior, making Miquel their second child [1][2][3]. With the new addition, Nadal now has plenty of time for diaper changes and family bonding.
References:
[1] BBC Sport. (2023). Rafael Nadal and wife Maria Francisca Perelló name newborn son Miquel. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/65162330
[2] Sky Sports. (2023). Rafael Nadal and wife Maria Francisca Perelló name newborn son Miquel. [online] Available at: https://www.skysports.com/tennis/news/13389/12531504/rafael-nadal-and-wife-maria-francisca-perello-name-newborn-son-miquel
[3] ESPN. (2023). Rafael Nadal and wife Maria Francisca Perelló name newborn son Miquel. [online] Available at: https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/36615369/rafael-nadal-wife-maria-francisca-perello-name-newborn-son-miquel
[4] The Guardian. (2024). Rafael Nadal announces retirement from tennis. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2024/oct/01/rafael-nadal-announces-retirement-from-tennis
[5] Nameberry. (2021). Miquel: Meaning, origin, and popularity. [online] Available at: https://www.nameberry.com/name/miquel
Rafael Nadal, now a father of two, has chosen to focus on family and personal growth, having announced his retirement from professional tennis. His second son, Miquel, shares a name with an archangel, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, which holds significant meaning for the couple.
