Rafael Nadal makes special addition to his museum collection: A replica of his statue at Roland Garros gifted by French Tennis Federation

Rafael Nadal’s academy museum in Mallorca has made a special addition to its extraordinary collection of souvenirs.

In 2021, the French Tennis Federation honored Nadal with a three-meter tall, stainless-steel statue sculpted by Jordi Diez Fernandez to recognize the Spaniard’s remarkable French Open success.

The former World No. 1 is the greatest athlete to ever grace the Parisian clay court event, having lifted 14 titles at the tournament thus far, with a record of 112 wins against a mere three losses.

As a personal token, the president of the French Tennis Federation, Gilles Moretton, recently gifted Nadal a miniature replica of his statue at Roland Garros. The stunning figurine, which showcases the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s trademark forehand action, has now been made a part of the Spaniard’s prestigious exhibit at the Rafa Nadal academy.

Nadal’s stainless-steel statue at Roland Garros isn’t the only immortal representation of the Spaniard. The athlete has previously been sculpted in bronze, wax, clay and terra cotta. Moreover, the Mallorcan’s hometown is gearing up to make a grand gesture to celebrate his phenomenal achievements.

After the 36-year-old clinched his 14th French Open title and his 22nd Grand Slam overall, it was announced that the Manacor City Council would be honoring its greatest tennis player of all time with a bronze statue, to be installed at the Placa del Palau (Palace Square).

As per reports, the artwork will comprise two statues looking towards the Spaniard's family home – one of him sitting during a break in a match and the other of his younger version. The Spaniard's peculiar placement of water bottles will also be depicted in the work. The statues will be adorned with words such as 'effort', 'perseverance', and 'strength', which are fitting to Nadal’s character.

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"Wouldn't be surprised if Rafa came up with some ridiculous level once again" – Casper Ruud on Rafael Nadal’s chances at French Open 2023

Rafael Nadal and Casper Ruud at the 2022 French Open trophy ceremony.

Rafael Nadal hasn’t had an ideal season thus far in 2023. The 36-year-old’s form has wavered ever since his 2022 Wimbledon semifinal withdrawal and he hasn’t participated in a single tournament since his Australian Open second-round exit.

However, he is expected to make a competitive return during the clay court season. The Spaniard’s protege Casper Ruud, who was trounced by the champion in the 2022 French Open final, expressed his optimistic views about the legend’s comeback.

Rudd stated that, despite his current struggles, the veteran will be laser-focused on his French Open participation and could very well win his 15th title at the event this year.

“Wouldn't be surprised if Rafa [Rafael Nadal] came up with some ridiculous level once again and won for the 15th time because he will probably use these weeks and these months to prepare for Roland-Garros,” Casper Ruud remarked.

“The only thing that is probably on his mind these days is just to be fit, be healthy, and be ready for Roland-Garros," the 24-year-old added.