Rafael Nadal to Receive Grand Tribute at French Open After Official Retirement
April 17, 2025
As a 22-time Grand Slam champion and a 14-time French Open winner, Nadal will be honored with a tribute on May 25, 2025, the opening day of the tournament.
Rafael Nadal officially retired from professional tennis in November 2024 after representing Spain in the Davis Cup, marking the end of an illustrious career.
In a departure from other Grand Slam tournaments, the French Tennis Federation has decided against adopting electronic line calling technology, opting to retain traditional line judges.
French Open director Amélie Mauresmo emphasized Nadal's historic impact on the tournament, noting that his record 14 titles may remain unmatched.
In addition to the tribute, Nadal will be featured in a temporary exhibition at the Roland-Garros museum and will lend his voice to the official French Open trailer.
Mary Pierce will be recognized on June 5, 2025, while Gasquet's participation is still pending an official invitation.
To enhance the fan experience, organizers are establishing a free fan zone at Place de la Concorde, featuring giant screens for matches and accommodating up to 5,000 fans.
The total prize pool for the 2025 French Open is set at 56.352 million euros, reflecting a 5.21% increase from the previous year.
The French Open is open to discussions about increasing prize money for players, responding to recent demands from top players for significant pay hikes.
The tribute ceremony will take place on the Philippe-Chatrier court following three matches during the day session.
Gilles Moretton, president of the French Tennis Federation, highlighted the deep connection between Nadal and Roland Garros, expressing the importance of creating a significant tribute after last year's missed opportunity.
The French Open will also honor 2000 women's champion Mary Pierce for the 25th anniversary of her victory and local favorite Richard Gasquet, who is retiring after this year's tournament.
Summary based on 5 sources
Get a daily email with more France News stories
Sources

NBC Sports • Apr 17, 2025
Rafael Nadal to be honored with a tribute at the French Open - NBC Sports
The West Australian • Apr 17, 2025
French Open to honour 14-times champion Nadal
WKMG News 6 & ClickOrlando • Apr 17, 2025
Rafael Nadal to be honored with a tribute at the French Open
WSOC TV • Apr 17, 2025
Rafael Nadal to be honored with a tribute at the French Open