Roland Garros 2025 opened with an emotional tribute to the “King of Clay,” Rafael Nadal, who officially retired earlier this year after a legendary career that saw him lift a record 14 French Open titles. The tournament organizers honored the Spanish tennis icon with a special on-court ceremony before the start of Monday’s matches, celebrating his extraordinary legacy in Paris.
A video montage of Nadal’s most iconic Roland Garros moments was played on the big screens, followed by a standing ovation from fans, players, and officials alike. Nadal, who was present at Court Philippe-Chatrier, appeared visibly moved as he addressed the crowd, thanking them for their unwavering support over the years.
“This court gave me everything in my career,” Nadal said. “The memories I have here will stay with me forever. I will always be a part of Roland Garros, even if I’m no longer competing.”
Tournament director Amélie Mauresmo praised Nadal’s impact on the sport, calling him “a champion like no other” and unveiling a commemorative plaque bearing his name outside the stadium. Nadal’s former rivals, including Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, also sent in video messages of tribute.
While the atmosphere was nostalgic for Nadal, the current generation wasted no time making headlines of their own. On the women’s side, second seed Aryna Sabalenka powered through her opening match with a commanding 6-1, 6-2 victory over France’s Clara Burel. The Belarusian star needed just over an hour to dispatch her opponent, showing no signs of rust or nerves on the big stage.
“I feel great on the clay this year,” Sabalenka said post-match. “I’ve been training hard, and I’m hungry for a deep run here.”
Sabalenka, a semifinalist last year, is aiming to claim her first French Open title and add to her growing Grand Slam tally. With defending champion Iga Świątek also in the draw, fans are anticipating a thrilling rivalry between the two powerhouses in the later rounds.
The 2025 French Open has already begun with high emotion and fierce competition. As Roland Garros honors its past and embraces its future, the spotlight now shifts to the emerging stars hoping to carve their own legacy on the red clay.
