Despite Retirement, Rafael Nadal’s French Open Legacy Stays Intact After Staggering Odds Prove His Unmatched Dominance
92 ATP titles, 22 Grand Slams, and to top it off, a mega-heart attitude, that’s the legacy that Rafael Nadal has left behind in tennis. Regarded as one of the tennis G.O.A.T.s, the Spaniard finally called it quits after playing the last match of his career against Botic Van de Zandschulp at the Davis Cup. While he might have announced his retirement from the professional sport, it seems like his name won’t go off Roland Garros strength list any time soon. Why so?
Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest tennis players in history, announced his retirement in 2024, marking the end of an illustrious career. Known as the “King of Clay,” Nadal’s dominance at Roland Garros remains unparalleled. The 14-time French Open champion etched his name in tennis history with victories in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2022. His legacy remains intact despite his retirement, as staggering odds for the 2025 French Open place him at +2500, higher than several active players.
Carlos Alcaraz leads the odds at +175, followed by Jannik Sinner at +330 and Novak Djokovic at +400. Nadal’s inclusion on this list demonstrates his lasting impact on tennis, even after stepping away. In what turned out to be his final French Open in 2024, Nadal faced a heartbreaking first-round exit against Alexander Zverev. The match ended 6-3, 7-6, 6-3, a rare setback for the champion.
Only Rafael Nadal could literally retire and still be 7th favorite to win Roland Garros in 2025 pic.twitter.com/1yYGIRUdkj
— Swish Tennis (@Zwxsh) December 12, 2024
While Nadal acknowledged the challenges of his later years, he expressed pride in his accomplishments. “If it’s the last time that I played here, I am at peace with myself,” Nadal said after his first-round loss. “I tried everything to be ready for this tournament for almost 20 years. And today and the last two years I have been working and going through probably the toughest process in my tennis career, with the dream to come back here. At least I did that. I mean, I lost, but that’s part of the business.” Nadal said. His legacy as a French Open icon inspires players and fans alike.
Not only the fans, but even legends of the sport have also acknowledged the legacy that he has left behind. John McEnroe was one among them.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion John McEnroe highly praised Rafael Nadal, highlighting his clay court dominance one of the greatest achievements in sports history. “Some say beating Rafa over five sets on clay is the toughest thing in sport – not just tennis. I would agree with that,” McEnroe said while showing Nadal’s unique brilliance at Roland Garros.
McEnroe, a Roland Garros finalist in 1984, reflected on the impact Nadal has had on tennis, comparing him to legendary players of previous generations. “I was around the era where I thought I was watching the greatest – I was at the time – Borg. Nadal eclipses him,” he said. This statement highlights how Nadal’s 14 French Open titles have solidified his reputation as the undisputed “King of Clay.”
Speaking to BBC Sport in 2018, McEnroe elaborated on Nadal’s technical mastery and strategic approach. “He has the uncanny ability of being able to hit a lot of forehands and move very well on clay,” he explained. “He knows how to manipulate the angles to get people out of position. He’s very aggressive, although patient when needed. If the shot is there, he’s taking it and going for it.”
