Rafael Nadal, the 14-time French Open champion, was asked if he’d swap places with Carlos Alcaraz after watching the 22-year-old Spaniard’s thrilling 2025 French Open final victory over Jannik Sinner on June 8. Nadal, who retired in November 2024, firmly rejected the idea, emphasizing his contentment as a spectator. “I don’t feel like I would have liked to be there,” he told reporters at a charity golf event in Spain, per Express. “I watched the tournament like any other fan, excited to see a place that was so important during my career and simply enjoying the tennis.”
The Epic Final and Nadal’s Reaction
Alcaraz’s 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(2) win, lasting five hours and 29 minutes, was the longest French Open final ever, per ATP Tour. Down two sets and facing three match points, Alcaraz drew inspiration from Nadal’s fighting spirit, later saying, “When I was feeling worse, I tried to think about Rafa,” per The Mirror. Nadal called it a “match for the ages,” praising Alcaraz’s “spectacular” comeback and expressing sympathy for Sinner’s valiant effort, per Tennis365. He also hailed both as “far above the rest,” noting their dominance in winning the last six Grand Slams, per The Tennis Gazette.
Nadal’s Perspective on Legacy
Despite Alcaraz’s nod to his influence, Nadal avoided fueling comparisons, stating, “Tennis is more important than any player. New stars will always appear,” per ATP Tour. He expressed no envy for Alcaraz’s youth or success, reflecting on his own 22-major career with satisfaction. Alcaraz’s fifth Grand Slam, matching Nadal’s age at his fifth major, drew parallels, but Nadal focused on the future, saying, “Tennis is in good hands,” per Tennis365. His X post, “¡Enhorabuena @carlosalcaraz! Congrats also @janniksin for the great battle,” underscored his support, per @RafaelNadal.
