Roland Garros officials released further details of the Nadal tribute, revealing that French astronaut Thomas Pesquet will deliver a pre-recorded message from the International Space Station saluting the King of Clay.
Tournament partner Rolex sponsors a temporary gallery outside Philippe Chatrier displaying the thirteen timepieces Nadal wore during each title run, highlighting minute scratches etched by clay particles.
Nadal’s family will attend, including his young son, who will roll the ceremonial first ball across Chatrier’s baseline once the stadium lights dim.
Fans unable to secure arena seats can watch on a free giant screen in the Place du Trocadéro, where organisers expect thousands to gather under evening skies. The broadcast includes archival interviews and player tributes subtitled in four languages.
VIP ticket holders receive a clay capsule containing grains from Nadal’s 2005 winning court, certified by the French Tennis Federation and encased in transparent acrylic.
The evening closes with a rendition of Concierto de Aranjuez by guitarist Tomatito, linking Spanish heritage to Parisian celebration in a moment many predict will rank among the sport’s most emotional farewells.
