Nadal warns about AI fake videos impersonating him for scams, while his sister faces stalking harassment from a disturbed individual

Technology has revolutionized tennis and the fan viewing experience. Yet, electronic umpiring has raised questions about precision, and the digital realm outside the courts presents fresh difficulties.

Having not played since last year’s Davis Cup, Nadal has largely remained out of the spotlight since retiring. His last major public appearance was at this year’s French Open farewell ceremony at the Philippe Chatrier Stadium, where he received a commemorative plaque engraved with his footprints, joining Federer, Djokovic, and Murray in immortality. Those three legends attended in person to honor Nadal’s illustrious career. Since then, Nadal has nearly vanished from public view.

However, on September 23rd, a dramatic turn occurred. Nadal suddenly spoke out on social media, issuing a rare and urgent warning in Spanish and English: “Hello everyone. I don’t usually post reminders like this on my social media, but I feel it’s necessary. My team and I have discovered that some platforms are circulating AI-generated fake videos where someone looks and sounds like me. These videos promote investment advice or offers that are not from me.”

He further explained that these videos misuse his image and voice to mislead viewers and spread false investment information. Nadal was unequivocal, stressing the danger of this “fake advertising scam” and distancing himself from it: “I have not created or endorsed any such content. Thank you all for your support!” Even a tennis legend must guard against digital fraud.

Nadal is not the only victim; celebrities in entertainment, politics, and sports have also been targeted. Taylor Swift, Rosalía, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and young talent Ramin Yamal have all fallen prey to deepfake scams. These scams clone their voices and images to promote counterfeit products or misinformation. They confuse fans and blur reality. For today’s stars, this is a surreal new battle.

Moreover, Nadal himself is facing troubles off the court. His sister, Maribel, recently endured a terrifying ordeal involving harassment from a stalker.

On Monday, Spanish media revealed that Maribel Nadal is living through a nightmare. A 37-year-old German man admitted to stalking and harassing her but avoided prison due to it being a first offense, his confession, and the belief he would not reoffend, resulting in a suspended sentence. Still, the case is chilling. He had appeared at the Rafa Nadal Academy (managed by Maribel, 36, this year) and managed to obtain her phone number, from which he sent numerous harassing calls and texts.

Maribel is not only Rafa’s sister but also the mastermind behind his business empire. At the Nadal Academy in Mallorca, she oversees marketing, brand image, and major event operations, serving as the “backbone” that keeps the entire system running smoothly and shining.

The messages were chilling. “I can no longer love you, I want to hurt you,” the stalker wrote. Many texts arrived late at night. According to the plea agreement, Judge Manuel Núñez Jiménez described the behavior in a five-page ruling as “repeated and continuous.” These incessant calls invaded her life, causing anxiety and forcing her to be accompanied when going out.

Whether facing deepfake scams in the virtual world or lurking threats in real life, the Nadal family endures a double ordeal. For this legendary player, retirement was supposed to bring peace and reflection, but now shadows of technology and unexpected troubles have cast a pall. Perhaps, just as he confronted challenges on the court, Nadal and his family will continue to respond with strength and composure.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)