'It will be weird without Rafael Nadal at the French Open' - says French Open director Mauresmo.

Rafael Nadal will return to the familiar territory of Roland Garros this May, but will swap competing on Court Philippe Chatrier for being honoured in an opening-day ceremony that will mark his record-breaking run of 14 French Open titles.

Tournament organisers had been keen to hold a similar reception at last year's championships, but Nadal asked for plans to be put on hold, unsure at the time that it would be his last time competing on the Paris clay.

The Spaniard, who retired last November after collecting 22 Grand Slam singles title in a 23-year playing career, already has a statue situated amongst the alleys of Roland Garros.

Nadal will also be the subject of a temporary exhibition at the tournament’s museum and will lend his voice to the official 2025 French Open trailer.

The 38-year-old's final match played at the French Open came at the start of last year's tournament - a first-round loss to Alexander Zverev.