‘Statue not enough’ – Roland Garros centre court should be renamed for Rafael Nadal declares Roger Federer coach
Rafael Nadal should have his name physically etched into the history of Roland Garros by renaming its biggest court after him according to former world number three Ivan Ljubicic.
The Spaniard claimed a record-extending 14th title at the Paris Slam to take his overall Major tally to a new men’s singles record of 22.
That is three more singles titles at an individual Major than any man or woman in the history of the sport, something coach of Roger Federer Ljubicic should be better honoured.
He tweeted: “Not many have played 14 Roland Garros tournament.
“[Nadal] won it 14 times.”
Ljubicic labelled such an achievement as indescribable.
He then suggested: “Don’t think good old Phillippe (Chatrier) would mind if his court changes the name to Rafael Nadal.
“[A] statue is not enough.”
Nadal has a statue in his honour unveiled on the grounds of Roland Garros at last year’s event.
The main stadium court at the Slam was renamed Court Phillippe Chatrier in 2001 after the former French Tennis Federation president.
On the point of most Slam singles titles, Margaret Court is the only other player to have a double digit tally at a single event, 11 at her home Slam in Melbourne.
As a direct comparison, the main stadium court at the Australian Open bears her name.
Rafael Nadal does already have an ATP tour stadium court named after him, at the Barcelona Open.
The 12-time champion was honoured by the event during his run to his 10th crown there in 2017, changing the name of the centre court to Pista Rafa Nadal, or Rafa Nadal Arena.
Not many PLAYED 14 @rolandgarros tournaments. He won it 14 times. There is no word to describe this feat. Don’t think good old Phillippe would mind if his court changes the name to Rafael Nadal – statue is not enough
— Ivan Ljubicic (@theljubicic) June 5, 2022
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