PARIS — The familiar chants of “Vamos Rafa!” echoed around Court Philippe-Chatrier even before Rafael Nadal made his appearance. As in previous years, the excitement in the crowd intensified as he began his warm-up, with stadium announcer Marc Maury highlighting Nadal’s impressive record of victories at the French Open.
However, as the match against Alexander Zverev unfolded, the initial cheers of excitement gradually turned into anxious murmurs. Despite the shift in atmosphere, the crowd remained supportive, trying to buoy Nadal as the match slipped from his grasp.
Should this match mark Nadal’s final attempt at the French Open men’s singles title, it was evident he left nothing behind, battling valiantly against Zverev. While Nadal has consistently downplayed suggestions that this tournament in Paris would be part of his farewell tour, the sense of an ending lingered in the air. Notable figures such as his long-time rival Novak Djokovic, as well as Grand Slam champions Iga Swiatek and Carlos Alcaraz, were among the spectators in a packed Roland Garros. Just like the crowd at the 2022 US Open during Serena Williams’ last tournament, everyone seemed to be rooting for one more triumphant moment from Nadal.
Nadal’s Stoic Farewell at Roland Garros
Tennis is a relentless sport with little room for sentiment. Despite Rafael Nadal’s valiant efforts to regain his footing in the match, amid the echoing trumpet fanfares, the vibrant red and yellow flags of the crowd, and flashes that reminded us of his former glory, Roland Garros would not witness a fairy tale ending this year.
“If it’s the last time that I played here, I am at peace with myself,” Nadal reflected. “I have devoted nearly two decades preparing for this tournament. These past two years, I’ve navigated through the most challenging phase of my tennis career, holding onto the dream of returning here. I managed to do that. Yes, I lost, but that is simply the nature of this sport.”
Nadal’s Dominance at the French Open: A Legacy of Unmatched Success
Since Rafael Nadal first stepped onto the courts of the French Open in 2005, his name has become nearly inseparable from the tournament. Winning the men’s singles title in his debut year set the tone for what would become a series of extraordinary achievements. Nadal’s record at this Grand Slam is astounding—14 singles titles from 112 wins in 116 matches, culminating in a 96.5% win rate, the highest of any singles player at a major tournament. Remarkably, he claimed the 2008, 2010, 2017, and 2020 titles without losing a single set. His rare defeats, including a notable loss to Alexander Zverev, place Nadal in an elite group where only three players have bested him in Paris, alongside Robin Soderling in 2009 and Novak Djokovic in 2015 and 2021.
Nadal’s prowess on the clay courts has elevated him to legendary status, yet he remains an active and inspiring presence. Witnessing his iconic forehand and meticulous pre-serve rituals continues to captivate fans and fellow players alike. Jannik Sinner, expressing his admiration, considers himself fortunate to still observe Nadal’s passionate practice sessions and his humble presence off-court. Alize Cornet’s emotional response to a supportive message from Nadal before her retirement further illustrates the profound influence and admiration he commands within the tennis community.
As for Nadal’s future at the French Open, it remains uncertain. He has shown a preference for playing under specific conditions that suit his game—less humidity and lighter balls during afternoon matches. This choice underscores his reluctance to leave anything to chance at a tournament that has defined so much of his illustrious career.
The Unpredictable Finale of a Tennis Legend
For a long time, it seemed destined that this would be his final act. Ever since announcing his withdrawal from the French Open in May 2023 and revealing a year sidelined due to hip surgery, the narrative had been set for 2024 to likely be his last year in professional tennis.
During a poignant moment at his tennis academy in Manacor, Spain, he expressed a desire to conclude his career actively on the court, “sweaty and exhausted,” rather than sidelined. This sentiment framed the season as his farewell tour, prompting French Open organizers to prepare a parting ceremony.
However, a twist emerged. At a recent, packed news conference, he reshaped the conversation about his career’s closure. No longer merely a drawn-out farewell, he hinted at the possibility of continuing beyond 2024. “It’s a big chance that this is my last Roland Garros,” he acknowledged, “but it’s not 100% certain.” His refusal to fully shut the door on his career underscores his ongoing passion for tennis, the joy of having his family alongside on the tour, and the ongoing evaluation of his physical capabilities.
Nadal’s Challenging Road to the French Open
Rafael Nadal arrived at the French Open amid a tumultuous season, posting a modest 5-3 record on clay as he battled back from an abdominal injury that had disrupted his hard-court season earlier in the year. His absence from the Monte Carlo tournament raised doubts about his readiness for Roland Garros. Nadal himself expressed concerns, admitting, “My body won’t let me [return]. It’s getting difficult for me. It’s been a difficult year and a half, I’m trying every day.”
Despite the setbacks, Nadal returned to compete in Barcelona, only to be defeated in the second round by Alex De Minaur. He faced De Minaur again in Madrid and secured a victory in straight sets, yet he remained uncertain about his physical condition for Paris.
Reflecting on his career and the significance of Roland Garros, Nadal shared, “Roland Garros is the most important tournament of my tennis career. Everything I have experienced and enjoyed there stays in my heart forever. It’s not about winning or losing; it’s about stepping onto the court with the confidence to compete and to dream about what can happen.”
His journey through the clay season continued with mixed results, culminating in a round of 16 defeat to Jiri Lehecka at the French Open and a straight-sets loss to Hubert Hurkacz in Rome. Despite these challenges, the Madrid Open crowd paid homage to Nadal with a heartfelt “Gracias Rafa” banner, celebrating his five titles at the event.
Resilience at Roland Garros: Nadal’s Unyielding Pursuit of His 23rd Grand Slam
Amid a season filled with nostalgia and fluctuating performances, Rafael Nadal remained resolute, focusing on clinching his 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open. Training three hours at a time without pain and building confidence, Nadal entered the tournament unseeded, ranked 272nd globally. Despite his low ranking, his presence in the draw was a concern for every contender. Carlos Alcaraz, when asked if he hoped to face his idol Nadal early, replied with a smile, “No, honestly.”
The aura Nadal carries at Roland Garros is palpable. Alexander Zverev, prior to their first-round encounter, remarked, “You’re not playing the statue; you’re playing the actual person. But you are playing Rafa Nadal. I’m preparing for peak Nadal because I expect him to be at his absolute best here.”
Competing against Nadal on clay is as much a psychological battle as it is a test of skill. Daniil Medvedev noted Nadal’s unique ability to spin the ball, making it challenging to handle, especially on clay. “He fights for every point and brings intensity to each one. Facing him means you will be exhausted; it’s going to be tough. Rafa will always be Rafa.”
Stefanos Tsitsipas, reflecting on the challenge in mid-April in Monte Carlo, described playing Nadal as “the ultimate challenge on clay.”
Despite his sporadic participation and a modest 4-2 record on clay in 2022, Nadal’s tenacity shines at Roland Garros. He managed to win the tournament that year, overcoming a significant foot injury. His ability to triumph under adversity is something players like Novak Djokovic recognize and respect: “Regardless of how much he has played, at Roland Garros, he is who he is.”
Nadal’s Uncertain Farewell: Reflecting on His Legacy at the French Open
Rafael Nadal, a living legend of the French Open, might be contemplating his final appearances in the tournament. His longstanding rival, Roger Federer, recently expressed his sentiments on French TV’s “Telematin,” saying, “If he decides to say ‘ciao,’ it will be on a court, not from his couch. I love that about him; despite not being fully fit, he has the heart of a champion. I hope he chooses to stay in the game a bit longer than expected.”
Following a tough match against Alexander Zverev, which lasted over three hours, Nadal, though defeated, wasn’t ready to retire. Addressing the crowd at Court Philippe-Chatrier, he shared mixed feelings about his future, noting a slight improvement in his physical condition and expressing hope to compete in the upcoming Olympics.
With his family, including his wife Maria and son Rafael, supporting him from the stands, Nadal remains focused on future challenges. He may consider whether to pursue one more Olympic challenge or aim for another stint at his beloved French Open next year. Reflecting on his career, Nadal appreciates every moment—good and bad—that tennis has brought him, acknowledging the extraordinary experiences and successes far beyond his dreams.
