Rafael Nadal to Be Honoured at Roland Garros with Special Ceremony and Exhibition

Rafael Nadal will return to Roland Garros on May 25 for a special ceremony recognizing his historic 14-title run at the tournament. Although retired, the Spanish legend will be celebrated by the French Tennis Federation with an on-court tribute and a dedicated exhibition during the event.

Rafael Nadal, the 14-time Roland Garros champion and one of tennis’ greatest icons, will be honoured by the French Tennis Federation (FFT) during this year’s tournament in Paris.

Although the Spanish star officially retired from professional tennis in November, he is set to return to Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday, May 25, for a special ceremony celebrating his legendary achievements on the Parisian clay. The tribute will take place following the conclusion of the day session’s three scheduled matches.

In addition to the on-court ceremony, an exhibition will be presented throughout the tournament to commemorate Nadal’s historic run at Roland Garros. The display will showcase key moments and milestones from his record-setting career, during which he compiled a remarkable 112–4 win-loss record at the event.

Nadal’s first title in Paris came in 2005, when he captured the Coupe des Mousquetaires on his tournament debut. Over the following 17 years, he would go on to dominate the event, capturing his 14th and final Roland Garros title in 2022 with a victory over Casper Ruud.

This is not the first time the FFT has paid tribute to Nadal. In 2021, the organization unveiled a statue in his honour at Stade Roland Garros, cementing his status as a tennis legend and symbol of excellence on clay.

Nadal made his final competitive appearance at the French Open in 2024, where he was defeated by Alexander Zverev in the opening round.

As the clay-court major prepares to celebrate one of its most decorated champions, fans around the world will have the opportunity to reflect on the legacy of a player who defined an era at Roland Garros.