Rafael Nadal Loses in First Round of Roland Garros for First Time

The reign of Spanish superstar as King of Roland has possibly come to an end.

The 14 time winner was today beaten in the first round by 27 year old by German fourth seed Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6 6-3.

Zverev is now only the third man after Robin Soderling in 2009 and Novak Dkokovic in 2015 and 2021 to beat Nadal at the French Open.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion arrived on Court Philippe Chatrier – the scene of many of the finest moments of his career – to a thunderous reception from a packed stadium, and might very well have bidded them farewell at the end.

With some fans crying in the stands, Nadal departed to another standing ovation as the crowd showed their appreciation for the tournament’s finest champion.