Talking with Andy Roddick during Served with Andy Roddick podcast, Rafael Nadal shared his thoughts about last year’s Paris Olympics and the ultimate honor he received from the organizers.
Rafa took part in the opening ceremony ahead of his final appearance in his beloved Paris. The 14-time Roland Garros winner received the Olympic torch from Zinedine Zidane and passed it to his colleague, Amelie Mauresmo.
The Spaniard was among the last athletes to carry the Olympic torch before it fired the famous Olympic flame. Rafa carried it proudly in a red jacket with the Spanish flag. The legends Carl Lewis, Nadia Comaneci and Serena Williams stood by Rafa on the river Seine.
Rafael Nadal, 2024 Olympics ceremony© Stream screenshot
They gathered special memories on a rainy night on the river Seine, celebrating the most significant sporting event on the planet. The 22-time Major winner opened up about what the ceremony meant to him, thanking the organizers for including him.
Rafa built a special relationship with Paris two decades ago after conquering Roland Garros on his debut in 2005. The Parisian vibes made the Olympic Games ceremony even more special for the Spaniard, turning into the experience he will never forget.
The veteran scored one singles victory on Court Philippe-Chatrier. He faced Novak Djokovic in the second round and fell in straight sets, competing in the French capital for the last time before retiring three months later.
Rafael Nadal, 2024 Olympics ceremony© Stream screenshot
“I will never thank the Olympic Games organizers enough for making me a part of the ceremony. It was remarkable to receive the torch from Zinedine Zidane’s hands in front of the Eiffel Tower, especially for someone who is not French.
It was one of the most emotional moments of my career. There is no more significant sporting event than the Olympic Games, and I felt honored. Everything happening in Paris carried even more importance for me, knowing my history with that city.
I felt love and support from the people, which made me very happy,” Rafael Nadal said.
Tennis World USA