Rafael Nadal, the undisputed “King of Clay” and 22-time Grand Slam champion, will be honoured at this year’s French Open in a special ceremony on Sunday, May 25, following the day’s matches on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
The 38-year-old Spaniard, who retired from professional tennis in November 2024, leaves behind a legacy at Roland Garros that is unlikely to be matched. His record of 14 French Open titles and an incredible win–loss tally of 112–4 at the Parisian major has made him an icon of the sport, particularly on clay courts.
A two-time Olympic gold medallist—singles in Beijing 2008 and doubles in Rio 2016—Nadal’s achievements have cemented his place as one of the greatest players in tennis history.
Confirming the tribute, French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton said in a statement published by Olympics.com:
“It’s a love story. I think it’s important to talk about a love story because he has deep respect for the tournament, for clay, and we have the same respect for the player, for the ambassador he can become for Roland Garros and for the federation.”
The tribute is expected to draw widespread attention from fans, players, and tennis legends alike.
