Emanuel "Manu" Ginobili, the legendary Argentine basketball player, is celebrated worldwide for his dazzling career with the San Antonio Spurs and his pivotal role in Argentina's "Golden Generation" of basketball. Beyond the court, however, Ginobili's life has been anchored by a remarkably stable and enduring romantic partnership with his wife, Marianela Oroño. Their love story, spanning over two decades, stands as a testament to commitment and mutual support, a rare feat in the often-turbulent world of professional sports.
Their journey began in 1997 in Bahía Blanca, Argentina, Ginobili's hometown. At the time, Manu was playing for his local team, Estudiantes de Bahía Blanca. The couple was introduced through a mutual friend, Elizabeth, the wife of one of Manu's coaches or close associates. This initial meeting sparked an immediate connection, laying the foundation for a relationship that would withstand the pressures of international fame and demanding careers.
As Ginobili's basketball career began to ascend, their relationship faced the challenge of distance. After being drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 1999, Ginobili spent several seasons playing professionally in Italy for teams like Kinder Bologna before joining the NBA. Despite the geographical separation, their bond strengthened, with Marianela supporting Manu's dreams from afar. This period of long-distance dating proved the resilience of their connection, fostering deep trust and understanding between them.
In the summer of 2004, after years of dating and navigating the complexities of a professional athlete's demanding schedule, Manu Ginobili and Marianela Oroño tied the knot in a private ceremony in Bahía Blanca, Argentina. The wedding, though intended to be intimate, attracted media attention, a sign of Ginobili's growing celebrity. Their marriage marked a significant milestone, solidifying their partnership as Manu embarked on his most successful years in the NBA, winning championships with the Spurs.
Their family grew with the arrival of three sons, further cementing their bond. On May 16, 2010, Marianela gave birth to their twin sons, Dante and Nicola. Four years later, on April 21, 2014, they welcomed their third son, Luca. The couple often shares glimpses of their family life, highlighting their commitment to raising their children in a loving and supportive environment, away from the constant glare of the public eye.
Beyond their personal life, Manu and Marianela have also collaborated on philanthropic endeavors. In 2006, two years after their marriage, they launched the Manu Ginobili Foundation. This organization aims to help underprivileged children in Argentina, focusing on providing funding for deserving charitable institutions. Marianela Oroño plays an active role on the foundation's board, demonstrating their shared commitment to giving back to their community and country.
Throughout Ginobili's illustrious career, Marianela has remained a steadfast presence, often seen supporting him from the stands. Their relationship has been characterized by mutual respect and a shared desire for privacy, allowing them to build a strong family unit despite the demands of public life. Manu Ginobili frequently speaks of Marianela as his pillar of support, acknowledging her crucial role in his personal and professional success.
Today, Manu Ginobili and Marianela Oroño continue to enjoy a stable and happy marriage. Following Manu's retirement from professional basketball in 2018, he has transitioned into a role as a Special Advisor to Basketball Operations for the San Antonio Spurs, allowing him more time for family. Their enduring partnership, built on a foundation of love, support, and shared values, remains a quiet but powerful example of a successful long-term relationship in the public eye.