Rafael Nadal

Biography

Nadal won the French Open on his debut in 2005, days after turning 19, and owned Roland Garros for two decades — 14 titles, a 112-4 record. His rivalry with Federer and Djokovic formed the 'Big Three' era that lifted men's tennis to historic heights before his retirement in November 2024.

Spanish tennis player whose ferocity on clay and humility off it made him one of the sport's most admired champions.

Known for

22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 at the French Open.

Notable works & defining projects

• 14 French Open titles
• 2008 Wimbledon final vs Federer
• Rafa (autobiography)

Notable achievements

• Won 22 Grand Slam singles titles, second only to Novak Djokovic in men's tennis
• Record 14 French Open titles, the most at a single major by any player
• Won Olympic gold in singles (2008) and doubles (2016)

Timeline

1. 2005Won the French Open on his debut, aged 19
2. 2008Beat Federer in the classic Wimbledon final and won Olympic gold
3. 2024Retired after playing for Spain in the Davis Cup

Did you know?

• Nicknamed the 'King of Clay' — he won 81 consecutive matches on the surface, a record
• His uncle Toni Nadal coached him for most of his career; another uncle, Miguel Ángel, played football for Barcelona and Spain