Carlos Alcaraz Moved by the Emotional Roland Garros Tribute to ‘Idol’ Rafael Nadal

Carlos Alcaraz was among the handful of celebrities attending the Rafael Nadal tribute ceremony at Roland Garros.

Carlos Alcaraz Moved by the Emotional Roland Garros Tribute to ‘Idol’ Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz (Image via X/The Tennis Letter)

Carlos Alcaraz paid tribute to Rafael Nadal after the 14-time Roland-Garros champion was honored with a farewell ceremony on Sunday. Speaking after his first-round win over Giulio Zeppieri, the 22-year-old described Nadal’s record in Paris as nearly impossible to grasp.

The young Spaniard, who won his first French Open title last year, said he was touched by the ceremony. He praised Nadal’s incredible achievements and said that what the veteran has done at Roland-Garros may never be repeated.

Rafa has been my idol since the beginning of my career… for my interest in tennis. For me to be able to watch his last match here in Roland Garros and be able to be here for that farewell… so yesterday was a really special day I think for everyone. A special moment for me. Yesterday, seeing him saying goodbye in the way he did it was unbelievable. I love the way Roland Garros did the farewell for him. Everything was incredible. It ended up being the Big Four all together on Philippe-Chatrier. It was unbelievable. For me, it was a great experience sharing the last match for him on Philippe-Chatrier… and yesterday. It was great being with him in some way in the last steps at Roland Garros.

Carlos Alcaraz said in his Roland Garros press conference

Alcaraz was present at the emotional tribute on Court Philippe-Chatrier, joined by tennis legends Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray. He also shared the court with Nadal during the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking the former champion’s final appearance at the tournament.

Reflecting on the moment, Alcaraz said Nadal’s journey motivated him throughout his own career. He admitted being moved by the tribute and shared how watching his idol’s farewell was both inspiring and emotional.

Carlos Alcaraz wins opening round at Roland Garros

Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz began his French Open title defense with a dominant straight-sets win over Giulio Zeppieri on Court Suzanne Lenglen. The defending champion showed no signs of nerves as he cruised to a 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory in the first round on Monday.

Carlos Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz (via X)

The Spanish star controlled the match from start to finish. His sharp movement and powerful groundstrokes kept Zeppieri under pressure throughout. The Italian, who entered the main draw through qualification, struggled to match the Spaniard’s pace and consistency.

This strong opening win comes after a difficult run-up to the tournament. Alcaraz had been dealing with a forearm injury that limited his time on clay in recent weeks. However, he looked fully fit in his Roland Garros opener, showing no signs of discomfort during the match.

Next, Alcaraz will face Fabian Marozsan in the second round. The Hungarian, ranked 56th, upset the World No.2 at the Rome Masters last year. Their upcoming clash adds extra intrigue, as the Spaniard seeks to settle the score and continue his push toward a second straight French Open title.

Carlos Alcaraz reveals if he can break Rafael Nadal’s record

World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz gave a fitting response when asked about potentially catching up to Rafael Nadal’s Roland Garros records. The younger Spaniard smiled at first before firmly denying the possibility.

Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal
Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal (via X)

I can’t, honestly. It’s something you can’t think about it. Just one man on the planet was able to do it. I can’t imagine.

Carlos Alcaraz said in his post-match press conference

Alcaraz won his first Roland Garros title last year, defeating Alexander Zverev in a five-set thriller. By the same age Alcaraz is today, Nadal had already secured four Roland Garros titles. That highlights the enormity of the task facing the four-time Grand Slam champion.

One advantage for Alcaraz is that he doesn’t face the same level of competition Nadal did. Nadal had to battle against legends like Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, often coming out on top.

Alcaraz has faced Djokovic only once at Roland Garros and lost in four sets after suffering an injury mid-match. He enters this year’s tournament as the heavy favorite, having already won two Masters 1000 titles on clay.