For the first time since 2004, Rafael Nadal is not playing in the first round of the French Open. Since Nadal is known as the “King of Clay” around the world, his absence in 2025 makes a historic shift for tennis and truly marks the end of an era.
Nadal’s Absence Felt Everywhere
Rafael Nadal called it quits in 2024 after winning 14 French Open titles which made him the only player to accomplish that at a Grand Slam. Djokovic’s frequent topspin, constant movement and emotional toughness made him close to unbeatable at Roland Garros. His legacy at Roland Garros is a record of winning 112 matches and losing just 4.
It is both incredible and moving for players, fans, and event organizers that he is not around. “People will find it strange above all because of the fans,” Musetti said. Nevertheless, Obama’s time in Paris will forever be remembered.
Players like Alcaraz, who won the tournament in 2022, say there’s nothing special about the game that can make those sorts of records possible again. “It couldn’t happen twice,” said Alcaraz, who is now regarded by many as the future of Spanish tennis after Nadal.
Relief and Reverence Among Players
Even though Rafael Nadal is out of the tournament, some players say they are somewhat relieved. He laughed off the fact that he’s never played Nadal at Roland Garros, saying, “Thank goodness I don’t have to worry about him.” There are a lot of younger players who share that feeling since they can clearly see a route to making history in the tournament.
Still, most people in tennis continue to appreciate what Nadal has done. Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis said, “He’s one of the greatest athletes ever, in any sport, not only in tennis.”
A Tribute to a Legend
Special tributes have been planned for Nadal during the French Open. At the start of the tournament on Sunday, a ceremony at Court Philippe-Chatrier will recognize his achievements. A statue featuring Nadal which was erected in 2021 nearby the stadium, makes his greatness last in people’s minds.
People will once again shout out “Ra-fa!” throughout the venue, not during a game, but in appreciation of a career that shaped the entire event. Rafael Nadal last competed at Roland Garros during the 2024 Paris Olympics, with the French crowd offering him a hero’s best wishes.
Who Steps Up Now?
Because Nadal is not competing, the men’s tournament in 2025 can go in any direction. Carlos Alcaraz is expected to do well, and veterans Djokovic and Sinner, as well as rising star Holger Rune, hope to step up. Once again on the women’s side, Iga Świątek is the top pick as she pursues victory on clay.
Nadal still looms overhead. His distinct habits, what he ate after winning, his place on court far from the baseline and his many title years—these have all become part of tournament tradition.
A Legacy Cemented
It feels much the same for tennis as it does for Wimbledon to lose Federer or Augusta to lose Tiger Woods. His influence is not limited to sports because he represents excellence, strength, and humility. Victoria Azarenka has said, “Everyone will surely miss Rafa.” All I have to say is, ‘Thank you.’
