On May 25, tennis fans from Paris to digital screens worldwide will gather at Roland Garros for a heartfelt opening-day tribute to Rafael Nadal. The 22-time Grand Slam champion's record 14 French Open titles have cemented him as the \"King of Clay\" and a global sporting icon.
\"Rafa made history at Roland Garros and his 14 titles will perhaps remain unequalled,\" said tournament director and two-time Grand Slam champion Amelie Mauresmo. The ceremony on Court Philippe Chatrier will blend nostalgic match highlights with a forward-looking vision for the sport.
The Fédération Française de Tennis is also honoring the 2000 women's champion Mary Pierce and local star Richard Gasquet, who plans to retire after this year's event, creating a full slate of celebrations for past champions.
Wardrobe aside, the tournament is turning heads with a 5.21 percent boost in its total prize pool to 56.352 million euros (about $64.11 million), underscoring its commitment to supporting players at every level.
In a nod to tradition, the French Tennis Federation confirmed it will retain line judges at Roland Garros, even as other Grand Slams embrace electronic line calling. Federation chief Gilles Moretton emphasized, \"We are right to keep our referees and linesmen at Roland Garros. The federation wants to keep our referees for as long as we can.\"
For young global citizens, sports enthusiasts, and digital nomads alike, this opening-day homage will not only celebrate past glories but also spark conversations about the future of tennis—proving that great sporting moments can unite communities and inspire the next generation of changemakers.
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French Open plans grand opening day tribute for retired Rafael Nadal
cgtn.com
