The 14-time Grand Slam champion will be honored in Paris for his career.
In the first year after his retirement, clay court king Rafael Nadal (38) will receive a special honor in his realm, Roland Garros. Amélie Mauresmo, tournament director of the French Open, announced that the 14-time champion from Spain will be honored on Center Court at the start of this year’s Grand Slam tournament in Paris.
On the first day of the tournament (May 25), there will be a “tribute to Rafa, a ceremony in honor of Rafael Nadal on Court Philippe Chatrier” at the end of the day session, Mauresmo said, adding: “Rafa may not be playing at the French Open this year, but he will still be very present.”
Last year, Nadal played his last matches on the huge clay court in Paris, first in the first round of Roland Garros against Alexander Zverev and then at the Olympics. His 14 titles at a single Grand Slam tournament are unmatched, and for Mauresmo, it is a record for eternity in Paris.
Alongside Nadal, Frenchman Richard Gasquet (38) will also be honored at the French Open. He has been a companion of the Spaniard since childhood, but has been far less successful. Gasquet made his debut at Roland Garros in 2002 and reached the quarterfinals in 2016. “He started very young and entertained us all. We are also planning a ceremony for Richard,” Mauresmo said.
