Andy Murray Convinced Rafael Nadal’s 14 French Open Record Will ‘Stand the Test of Time’

Rafael Nadal lifted his record 14th French Open title in 2022 by breezing past Norway's Casper Ruud.

Andy Murray Convinced Rafael Nadal’s 14 French Open Record Will ‘Stand the Test of Time’

Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray (Image via X/Channels Television)

Who can surpass Rafael Nadal‘s incredible record of 14 French Open titles? At present, perhaps no one can think of a player.

Nadal’s ambitious compatriot Carlos Alcaraz was eyeing that record but as time progressed, he said what Nadal achieved on clay, including at the French Open, is “barbarity. Only people who aren’t from this world are capable of doing it“. The King of Clay, who hung up his racket at the Davis Cup in Malaga last year, received a grand and emotional farewell at the Roland Garros on May 25th.

It was attended by his longtime rivals Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray. The Scot, who had won 7 matches out of the 24 matches he played against Nadal, said he would “really be surprised” if the record of 14 French Open is broken.

I was supposed to come given my job with Novak and Amele [Mauresmo, French Open director] asked me last week if I could still come. It was natural, we’ve always gotten along well since we were kids. Obviously, what he’s achieved is incredible, especially here. I would be really, really surprised if this record were beaten one day. I think it will stand the test of time.

Andy Murray said (via L’Equipe)

Murray was the second member of the Big 4 to call time on his career after Federer who hung up his racket at the Paris Olympics. About four months after retirement, Murray joined Djokovic’s entourage but six months later, the partnership ended.

Murray is currently working as an associate partner at a London-based investment firm, Redrice Ventures. Djokovic, on the other hand, will start his bid for his historic 25th Major at the French Open against America’s Mackenzie McDonald on May 27th.

Iga Swiatek makes her feelings known on Rafael Nadal’s retirement

Iga Swiatek was sitting in the first row on Chatrier to witness Rafael Nadal‘s grand ceremony; and behind her, sat her fellow defending Roland Garros champion Carlos Alcaraz, with whom, she later clicked a selfie and shared it on social media along with a picture of Nadal and tissue papers. Less than 24 hours later, she played her first of the tournament.

Carlos Alcaraz Iga Swiatek Rafael Nadal
Carlos Alcaraz Iga Swiatek Rafael Nadal (via X)

Swiatek moved past Rebecca Sramkova 6-3, 6-3 following which, she confessed that she “needed to be brave” during the emotional ceremony. She especially liked the footprints of Nadal being etched forever on Chatrier.

It’s great that the whole tennis world could come together and show our appreciation, and tell Rafa that we’re really thankful for everything that he did and so many emotions that he gave us when we watched. He’s a huge inspiration, and even when he’s not playing, even being here yesterday, inspired me a lot.

Iga Swiatek said during the on-court interview

Swiatek has now set up a second-round clash with 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu, who is playing in the tournament for the first time since 2022. Before reaching the second round, the Brit knocked out China’s Wang Xinyu in three sets.

Swiatek holds a 4-0 head-to-head record over the 22-year-old. The upcoming match will be their second encounter this season following the third round of the Australian Open.

Raducanu is still searching for her first Major title since winning the 2021 US Open. Her best performance since that victory came this year at the Miami Open where she reached the quarterfinals and lost the match to eventual runner-up Jessica Pegula.

Swiatek, on the other hand, has not yet advanced to a championship match since winning her fourth Roland Garros title last year. If she reaches the quarterfinal, she could set up a match against last year’s French Open runner-up Jasmine Paolini. In the semifinal, the fifth seed could meet World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka, while in the final she could face Coco Gauff.

Also read: Alexander Zverev Predicts How French Open Crowd Will Treat Jannik Sinner After Doping Ban