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Rafa Rullán, Real Madrid Basketball Icon and Balearic Trailblazer, Dies at 73

The legendary player and pioneer of Spanish basketball is mourned by Real Madrid, Liga Endesa, and his native Sóller, with tributes planned to honor his legacy.

Minuto de silencio por Rafa Rullán previo al Real Madrid-Valencia.
El que fuera pívot del Real Madrid Felipe Reyes recibe una camiseta de manos del exjugador Rafael Rullán con motivo del homenaje recibido por convertirse en el jugador con más partidos disputados en la historia de la Liga, antes del inicio del partido ante el Kirolbet Baskonia en febrero de 2019.
Muere a los 73 años Rafa Rullán, el histórico jugador del Real Madrid
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Overview

  • Rafa Rullán passed away on May 4, 2025, in Madrid at the age of 73 after a prolonged illness, leaving a lasting legacy in Spanish basketball.
  • During his 18-year career with Real Madrid (1969–1987), Rullán won 14 Spanish Leagues, 9 Copa del Rey, 3 European Cups, and 4 Intercontinental Cups, among other titles.
  • He earned 161 caps for Spain, participated in the 1972 Munich Olympics, and won a silver medal at EuroBasket 1973, becoming the first Balearic basketball Olympian.
  • Post-retirement, Rullán served as Real Madrid's team delegate (1991–1999) and contributed to the club's foundation until 2016, cementing his influence off the court.
  • Real Madrid, Liga Endesa, and the Spanish Basketball Federation have issued official condolences, while Sóller plans a tribute this summer to honor his pioneering achievements.