Monica Puig suggests some other ways in which she thinks the French Open will honour Rafael Nadal.
The Spaniard is undoubtedly the clay court Grand Slam’s greatest performer having won the title an astonishing 14 times.
Nadal’s final French Open appearance came in 2024, where he lost to eventual runner-up Alexander Zverev in the first round.
Now retired, Nadal will feature at the 2025 French Open, but in a completely different capacity.
What else does Monica Puig think the French Open will do to honour Rafael Nadal?
Rafael Nadal lost just four of the 116 matches he played at the French Open throughout his illustrious career.
The 38-year-old produced a level of dominance at the tournament that has never been seen in the sport, and defeating him at Roland Garros was the toughest task for any tennis player.
Therefore the now retired Nadal and his legacy will be honoured by the French Open with a special ceremony set to take place on May 25, the opening day of the 2025 edition of the event.
While discussing the ceremony, 2016 Olympic champion Monica Puig told the Inside In podcast the other ways she thinks the French Open will honour their most successful player, who already has his own statue at the tournament.
“What more can you expect? That is his house. I would not be surprised in future if they build another stadium that is going to have his name, he is probably next in line for sure,” Puig said.
“It is only fitting. He deserves it. I feel like, not because of the player he was, but because of the type of person he is. I feel like he is very respected. And when we talk about fierce competitors, he is the fiercest of them all.
“That is going to be really great to say and hopefully we are going to see him present in the stands for many, many matches and night sessions and 150% deserved.”
Rafael Nadal reacts to French Open tribute announcement
Following the news of the French Open’s plans to honour him, Nadal posted his response on social media.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion took to social media platform X and wrote: “See you soon Paris!”, as he looks forward to what will be a very proud and special moment in his life.
Tournament director and two-time Grand Slam winner Amélie Mauresmo has since shared her thoughts on the upcoming event.
“Rafa made history at Roland Garros and his 14 titles will perhaps remain unequalled,” the former World number one said.
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