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French tennis player Gael Monfils has suggested that either the French Open Grand Slam or the clay surface should be renamed in honor of Rafael Nadal, given his incredible achievements at Roland Garros.
Monfils' comments came during a press conference on live streaming platform Twitch. During the session he also announced his decision to not play at next week's Paris Masters, and instead call time on his 2020 season.
Earlier this month, Rafael Nadal won a record-extending 13th Roland Garros trophy, and in the process tied Roger Federer's record of 20 Grand Slam singles titles. Monfils on his part gave a unique idea of paying tribute to the Spaniard's remarkable record in Paris.
"Rafael Nadal has been blessed. The media always say 'this year has been good for Rafa.' For 12 years, he has been doing the same thing and now it is the 13th time that he has won. He is incredible," Monfils said.
"I think that we will have to change the name of Roland Garros or even the name of the surface. Shouldn't we say 'Nadal land' one day because what he does is exceptional," Monfils added.
Rafael Nadal's astonishing record on clay and the French Open
Rafael Nadal has a truly staggering record at the French Open. He has won the tournament 13 times out of 16 appearances, and emerged victorious in 100 of his 102 matches.
Nadal has lost only two matches at Roland Garros - to Robin Soderling in 2009 and Novak Djokovic in 2015. The only other year he didn't win the tournament, was when he had to pull out mid-way due to injury.
The 34-year-old has won 60 titles on clay so far, making him the most dominant male player ever on the surface and earning him the 'King of Clay' nickname.
Monfils has played Rafael Nadal 16 times on tour, with the Frenchman recording only two wins - both on outdoor hardcourts. Nadal has won all six of their meetings on clay.
Rafael Nadal is scheduled to compete at next week's Paris Masters, where he will be aiming to win the title for the first time in his career. He is also likely to play the season-ending Nitto ATP Finals in London next month.
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