For years, Iñaki Urdangarin has chosen to keep a low profile with the media. Especially after his separation from Infanta Cristina and his time in prison. However, even though he has a new life away from the spotlight, he has decided to speak out.
He did so in an interview in which he was more sincere than ever. In it, he shared details about his present and about his family. What stood out the most was what he said about his son, Pablo Urdangarin.
Iñaki Urdangarin breaks the silence about his role as a father and mentor
At 57 years old, Iñaki Urdangarin has started a peaceful stage alongside his current partner, Ainhoa Armentia. He lives in Vitoria, where he has reinvented himself professionally as a sports and personal coach. From there, he closely follows the progress of Pablo Urdangarin, his second son.
In the interview, published in La Vanguardia, the former Duke of Palma made it clear that he is very present in Pablo Urdangarin's life. He explained that he constantly advises his son in his career as a handball player. He made official the three key pieces of advice he has always given him.
"I'm very insistent with my son, but he's fantastic because he listens," he said. This bond, he says, has grown stronger over the years. Especially since Pablo decided to follow in his footsteps as an athlete.
The three keys Iñaki Urdangarin has passed on to his son
In the interview, the former Duke clearly detailed the guidelines he has instilled in Pablo. The first is humility, as an essential value for making progress without falling into arrogance. "If you think you're something today, tomorrow you're nothing," he said.
The second guideline is attitude. Iñaki says that a player needs to have a warrior's mentality on the court. Talent alone isn't enough if there isn't commitment and total dedication.
The third is emotional management. He has taught his son not to lose his way after victories or after defeats. He keeps that both situations are opportunities to start over and learn.
These principles have been essential for Pablo's growth. The young man, who plays for Granollers's team, is already one of their key pieces. He is not only because of his athletic ability, but also because of his maturity and discipline.
The connection between father and son marks a new stage for both
Although Iñaki keeps in touch with all his children, it is with Pablo that he shares the most affinities. Sports and their way of understanding life have brought them together.
This public revelation from Iñaki represents a change in his image. After years marked by scandal and silence, today he appears approachable and human. His testimony as a committed father gives another dimension to his public figure.
Pablo continues to gain prominence on his own merits. At just 23 years old, he has shown character, perseverance, and determination. Now, we know that part of that success has a very clear origin: the values passed on by his father.