Rafael Nadal already has a statue at Roland Garros.
That’s what happens when you win the French Open a mind-boggling 14 times.
But the clay court GOAT will be honored again on Sunday after Day 1 of the matches at the 2025 French Open are concluded.
The French tennis federation is “Celebrating the King,” according to the Roland Garros social media.
Nadal ended his career with a 112-4 record at the French Open.
He played his final competitive match last November at the Davis Cup.
Nadal concluded his career with 22 Grand Slam titles, with 14 coming in Paris.
Now 38 years old, Rafa has gotten the chance to receive adulation from all over the tennis world.
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Nadal, according to the Associated Press, loved the fans in Paris: “They give me the love and the support every single second I have been on the court.”
The AP reported that there would be active players in the crowd at Nadal’s recognition on Sunday, as well.
Nadal’s legacy at Roland Garros has long been secure, with the farewell on Sunday just closing the book on his playing career.
In reality, the French Open will never fully say goodbye to Nadal. He was too good there for too long.
His legend, his legacy, his footprint will always be on the Roland Garros clay. Every player who ever takes to the court in Paris will just be trying to replicate a little bit of Nadal’s magic.
No one will ever do what he did, of course. That’s greatness.
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