Mallorca’s favourite son returns as Rafael Nadal leads star-studded charity golf showdown

When Rafael Nadal steps onto a golf course in Mallorca, it is always a special occasion. But this week, the island’s most famous sporting son returned for a cause much bigger than sport, joining an extraordinary line-up of international stars for the latest edition of The Battle of the Stars charity tournament.

Held from June 10 to 12 across the stunning fairways of Pula Golf Resort and Son Servera Golf Club on Mallorca’s east coast, the annual event has become one of the island’s standout sporting and social occasions. Combining professional athletes, celebrities and amateur golfers, the tournament aims to raise money and awareness for the fight against ALS (motor neurone disease) and multiple sclerosis.

A sporting who’s who arrives in Mallorca

Nadal was the headline attraction, but he was far from the only big name taking part.

The 2026 edition brought together an impressive collection of sporting legends including former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, tennis great Andy Murray, Spain striker Álvaro Morata, former Chelsea and Italy star Gianfranco Zola, ex-Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina, Andriy Shevchenko, Bernd Schuster and former NBA player Rudy Fernández.

For golf fans, it offered a rare opportunity to see some of the world’s most recognisable sporting figures swap their usual arenas for the fairways of Mallorca.

The event follows a pro-am format, allowing amateur golfers to play alongside famous names while supporting an important cause. Over the years it has grown into a fixture on the Balearic sporting calendar, attracting visitors from across Europe.

More than just a golf tournament

While the celebrity line-up grabs the headlines, the real purpose of The Battle of the Stars lies in fundraising.

Organisers created the event to support research and treatment efforts for ALS and multiple sclerosis, two devastating neurological conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. Proceeds raised through the tournament help fund charities, research projects and support initiatives linked to both diseases.

The tournament has become known for blending sport, entertainment and philanthropy, with participants donating their time to help shine a spotlight on the causes.

Nadal’s enduring connection to Mallorca

Although retired from professional tennis, Nadal remains one of Mallorca’s most recognisable ambassadors. Born in Manacor, he continues to live on the island and is regularly involved in charitable and sporting initiatives close to home.

His appearance at The Battle of the Stars was a reminder of the strong connection he maintains with Mallorca and the local community. For many spectators, seeing Nadal back on home soil alongside fellow sporting icons was one of the highlights of the event.

As another successful edition comes to a close, The Battle of the Stars has once again shown how Mallorca can bring together world-class names, spectacular sporting venues and a worthwhile cause. And with Nadal at the centre of it all, the tournament continues to feel uniquely Mallorcan.