Legends Beneath the Palms – The Unsung Heroes of Golf in Mallorca

Meet the passionate personalities who shaped Mallorca’s golf scene - with heart, humor, and a legendary swing.

When you think of Mallorca golf, certain images pop up instantly: endless fairways, lush greens set against the shimmering blue of the sea, palm trees swaying gently in the breeze – and in the middle of it all, elegant swings and perfect drives. But wait! Who's actually behind this golfer's paradise? Who are the faces that helped shape this sport on the island?
Join us on a special journey – a tour through the lives of quiet yet great personalities who have defined golf on the sunny island. Expect stories full of heart, humor, and a healthy dose of Mallorcan spirit.

When the Ball Becomes Your Destiny – The Story of Toni Nadal

No, we're not talking about that Toni Nadal – although Rafa's famous uncle also lives on Mallorca. Our Toni Nadal is a golfing institution on the island. With a handicap that would make even seasoned players envious, the 62-year-old has not only played his way through countless regional tournaments but also actively contributed to the development of Mallorca golf courses.
Back in the 1980s, Toni was groundskeeper, coach, greenkeeper – and sometimes bartender all rolled into one at the then 9-hole course in Capdepera. "Back then, it wasn't a job; it was a calling with a multi-purpose jacket," he says with a laugh. His favorite course today? "Definitely Son Gual – in my eyes, the best golf course in Mallorca. Technically challenging but beautifully integrated into the landscape."

Maria Torres – The Woman with the Golden Swing

Golf is a man's game? Not in Mallorca. Maria Torres, now in her early 50s, was already swinging a 7-iron as a young girl while her peers played with Barbies. She won her first regional tournament at 16, played internationally by 21 – and then made a conscious choice to stay on the island.
Why? "I didn't want to leave my roots. Mallorca is my home – and I wanted to show other women that you can achieve big dreams right here." Today she runs a small golf academy near Santa Ponsa, primarily training girls and young women. Her passion is contagious: "Golf is like life. You swing, you fail, you try again – and sometimes, you land right on the green."

From the Driving Range to Driving Force – Pepe Riera

If you've ever teed off on the east side of the island, you've probably heard his name: Pepe Riera, the eternal optimist with the mustache. Now 67, he used to be a bricklayer – until he discovered golf at 40 and fell in love. "At first, it was a hobby. Then a quirk. Now it's my mission."
Not only has Pepe shined in amateur tournaments, but he also played a key role in building smaller golf clubs in Mallorca. He's especially proud of the club in Manacor: "No luxury, no fancy terraces. But heart, community, and a course that challenges you at every turn."
His secret to a good game? "Keep your eye on the ball – and never lose your humor when it decides to take a dip in the water."

Passion Knows No Age – The Junior Queen: Clara Suárez

Clara is 24. And she plays as if she were born with a putter in hand. She first stepped onto a course at 6, ranked among the top 3 in her age group in Spain by 10 – today, she’s the rising star of Mallorcan golf. "I love the challenge. Golf forces you to deal with yourself. No opponent, no team – just you, your club, and the wind."
Clara regularly tours Europe but always returns to the island to run workshops for young talent. Her favorite courses? "I love Alcanada – the ocean view is priceless. And Arabella – my heart skips a beat every time." No wonder: anyone who plays golf in Mallorca knows the magic of these places.

The Quiet Genius – Miguel Ferrer

While others boast trophies, Miguel prefers to stay in the background. But it was he who, as head greenkeeper on several courses in the 1990s, set new standards. "If you want someone to recognize the perfect turf, send them to Miguel," people still say among course managers.
Miguel sees golf as art. "The course is like a canvas. Every player paints a different picture with their swing." Even today, you’ll find him regularly walking Mallorca golf courses, always with a scrutinizing eye but a smile on his face. "I love it when a player tells me after a round: 'The course was a dream.' Then I know I’ve done my job."

 Why These Stories Matter – and Why They’re About All of Us

You might be asking: What do all these personalities have in common? The answer is simple – they’re passionate about golf. They haven’t just played golf in Mallorca, they’ve lived it, shaped it, and passed it on. Their stories inspire, make us smile – and remind us that this sport is more than just a game.
And let’s be honest: Didn’t this remind you of your first round? Of that ball that stubbornly refused to land on the green? Of the thrill when it finally did? That’s what connects us – the small victories, the big emotions, the shared experience.

Your Round, Your Legend

Mallorca isn’t just about sun, sea, and paella. It’s also home to real golf stories – of people who’ve shaped the sport on the island with passion, patience, and a wink. Next time you stroll across one of the manicured Mallorca golf courses, remember: each of these places carries a piece of those stories within it.
Maybe you’ll write your own? The courses are ready, the palm trees nod in approval – and the ball is just waiting for you to send it flying.

Feeling inspired to follow in the footsteps of legends? Then what are you waiting for – pack your shoes, book your tee time, and experience the magic of Mallorca golf up close.

Because who knows – maybe you’re the next legend we’ll be writing about.