Iga Swiatek shares why she's grateful to Rafael Nadal after dominant first-round win at Roland Garros

Iga Swiatek, the three-time defending champion at Roland Garros, opened her 2025 campaign with a commanding straight-sets victory over Rebecca Sramkova on Monday. But it wasn’t just her on-court dominance that made headlines, it was her heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal that followed.

Nadal received a moving ceremony on Sunday, as the tournament honored his unparalleled legacy with a special presentation on Court Philippe-Chatrier. The emotional moment featured appearances by fellow legends Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray. The French Open organizers unveiled a commemorative plaque, recognizing Nadal’s record-setting accomplishments in Paris.

Speaking after her match, Swiatek reflected on Nadal’s tribute and what it meant to her personally. “It’s nice to see Rafa getting emotional, it reminds us he’s human,” Swiatek told Roland Garros in a video posted to the tournament’s social media channels. “He deserved that tribute, and honestly, he deserves even more for everything he’s done for the sport.”

Swiatek, who has often cited Nadal as one of her biggest inspirations, didn’t hold back in expressing her admiration. “I’m really grateful for what he’s given to tennis, and for what we all felt watching him play,” she said. “Even though he’s not competing, just having him here yesterday was an inspiration for me. So, thanks, Rafa.”

Swiatek edges closer to historic French Open record

Swiatek’s opening-round victory over Kristina Sramkova at Roland Garros wasn’t just another routine win, it marked another step toward tennis history. While the French Open is just getting underway, the World No. 5 is inching closer to a record that would etch her name in the WTA history books.

see also

Former World No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki questions Iga Swiatek’s mindset ahead of French Open

If Swiatek can maintain her momentum and capture the title in Paris, she would become the first woman in the Open Era to win four consecutive French Open singles titles, a feat no other WTA player has achieved. Though her 2025 season has been up and down, with fewer wins than expected at other WTA 1000 events, a fourth straight crown at Roland Garros would be a defining achievement.

Swiatek set to face Raducanu in second cound

With the draw progressing in Paris, Swiatek now knows her second-round opponent, a familiar face in British star Emma Raducanu. The two last met earlier this year in the Australian Open’s Round of 32, where Swiatek cruised to a straight-sets victory.

Their upcoming clash at Roland Garros marks another intriguing chapter in what could become a compelling rivalry. For Swiatek, it’s another chance to assert her dominance on clay; for Raducanu, it’s a shot at redemption on one of the sport’s biggest stages.