Carlos Alcaraz Pays Tribute to Rafael Nadal Ahead of French Open Final
Alcaraz Honors Nadal Before French Open Clash
Spanish tennis sensation and World No. 2, Carlos Alcaraz, was seen paying tribute to his idol, Rafael Nadal, during a practice session ahead of his match against Lorenzo Musetti at the French Open 2025 on June 6.
Roland Garros held a special ceremony to honor Nadal, who has an unmatched record of 14 French Open titles. Gilles Morettin, the president of the French Tennis Federation, unveiled a commemorative plaque featuring Nadal's iconic footprint and a replica of the French Open trophy at Court Philippe-Chatrier.
This plaque has quickly become a popular spot for both fans and players. During his practice, Alcaraz captured a photo of Nadal's footprint, and the moment quickly gained traction on social media.
WATCH: Alcaraz Captures Nadal's Footprint
Carlos Alcaraz takes a photo of Rafa Nadal’s footprint on Philippe-Chatrier ahead of his Roland Garros semifinal. Love this. 🥹👣
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) June 6, 2025
Nadal's Legacy and Retirement
Rafael Nadal concluded his illustrious career following Spain's defeat to the Netherlands in the Davis Cup quarterfinals last November. Known as the 'King of Clay,' Nadal's dominance on clay courts has led to a legacy that may remain unmatched in tennis history.
Alcaraz Advances to Final After Musetti Retires
In other news, Carlos Alcaraz secured his place in the French Open final after Lorenzo Musetti retired due to a thigh injury. Alcaraz was leading 4-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-0, 2-0 when Musetti decided to withdraw after two hours and 25 minutes of play.
Initially, Alcaraz struggled to find his rhythm in the first set, falling behind. However, he fought back in the second set, ultimately winning it and leveling the match. The third set saw Alcaraz dominate, while Musetti's injury hindered his performance, leading to his retirement.
Alcaraz Set for Title Clash
Carlos Alcaraz will face the winner of the semifinal match between Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic in the final on June 8.
As he approaches his second consecutive French Open final, Alcaraz aims to make history by becoming the first player since Nadal in 2006 to win back-to-back titles at Roland Garros before turning 23.
Despite facing tough challenges throughout the tournament, Alcaraz has shown impressive form and is eager to defend his title, further solidifying his legacy as Nadal's successor on clay.
Alcaraz's Path to the Final
Before reaching the French Open, Alcaraz secured two clay-court titles at the Monte-Carlo Masters and the Italian Open, defeating Lorenzo Musetti and Jannik Sinner in the finals.