The French Open had one of the best tributes for Rafael Nadal's as the Spaniard's beloved tournament highlighted that his "legacy will live on forever" and also noted that the clay courts of Roland Garros will always be his home.
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On Tuesday, one of the greatest careers in tennis history came to an end after Netherlands overcame Spain 2-1 in the quarterfinal at the Davis Cup Finals.
In the end, Nadal did manage to play one last time but he suffered a 4-6 4-6 loss to Botic van de Zandschulp. While Carlos Alcaraz won the next singles match to force a deciding clash, Spain's comeback fell short after the reigning Wimbledon champion and Marcel Granollers lost to van de Zandschulp and Wesley Koolhof in doubles.
French Open's tribute to Nadal:
As you probably know extremely well, the 38-year-old is a record 14-time French Open champion - no player has ever won more titles at one Slam.
"Dear Rafa, It has been a privilege to watch you evolve on our clay, where you will leave a perpetual mark on such a challenging surface. We're proud to count you as our greatest champion, as much for your 14 titles as for the man you are. Your legacy will live on forever, on and off the tennis courts. Victory belongs to the most tenacious. Legend belongs to the King of clay. Thank you for the countless memories we've shared together. We wish you all the best for the future. Roland-Garros has been and always will be your home," the tournament wrote in their note.
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During his career, Nadal posted a stunning 112-4 record at Roland Garros. After becoming a Grand Slam champion at the French Open in 2005, he won three more consecutive titles before suffering his first defeat at the tournament in 2009.
Two years ago, the Spaniard won his 14th and last title in Paris. In 2023, Nadal didn't get to defend his title because of a hip injury but he returned for one last appearance this year and lost to Alexander Zverev in the first round.
