Seven months after bidding an emotional farewell to professional tennis following the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, Rafael Nadal is set to embrace a brand‑new chapter—rejoining the stage at Roland Garros in a prominent off‑court role. Tournament director Amélie Mauresmo has confirmed that Nadal will assume a long‑term position as a tournament ambassador at the French Open, reinforcing his deep, two‑decade connection with the event .
A fitting tribute—and a lasting legacy
On the opening day of the 2025 French Open, Nadal received a heartfelt court‑side tribute at Court Philippe‑Chatrier, drawing tributes from former rivals Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray . Mauresmo presented him with a commemorative plaque celebrating his unmatched record at Roland Garros—14 titles and an astonishing 112–4 singles record.
What the ambassador role entails
While precise job details haven’t been revealed, Mauresmo emphasized a collaborative future: “It’s now the common desire of the tournament and of Rafa to have some form of collaboration,” she stated . The role is expected to encompass promotional activities, representing Roland Garros at high‑profile events, and potentially influencing its strategic direction in the years ahead.
More than ceremonial presence
The ambassador title isn’t merely symbolic. Organizers see Nadal as a bridge between Roland Garros’ storied past and its future ambitions. The tournament also reaffirmed its commitment to tradition, including retaining line judges, making it the last Grand Slam to preserve human line‑calling.
Beyond Paris: a broader vision
Nadal’s involvement with the sport—beyond playing—is far from new. He’s already deeply engaged via his Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, which has become a world‑class hub for elite training and youth development . Furthermore, plans are underway to expand Rafa Nadal Tennis Centers including a new Marbella location launching in July 2025 . He remains active within his foundation, championing community, education, and wellness initiatives.
A legacy in motion
Retiring at 38 with 22 Grand Slam titles, Nadal’s passion for tennis hasn’t faded—he admits he hasn’t swung a racket since retirement but doesn’t rule out exhibitions in future . His new ambassadorial role at Roland Garros is a natural progression: it allows him to maintain a meaningful presence in the game while shaping its next generation and preserving the tournament’s heritage.
Nadal’s journey at Roland Garros is far from over—it’s simply evolving, and his return as ambassador ensures that the “King of Clay” will continue to inspire fans, players, and the sport he helped define.
