Ben Shelton reveals how after Rafael Nadal’s special tribute made his French Open debut unforgettable

Tennis sensation Ben Shelton made his debut in the French Open 2025 just after the legendary player Rafael Nadal's special tribute ceremony. The 22-year-old tennis star stated that he was purely in disbelief when he learned that he could be playing the first match on his Philippe-Chatrier court at the Roland Garros after the Spanish legend's tribute ceremony in the evening.

The 22-time Grand Slam winner has been honored by the French Open organizers for his historic milestone, where he has won 14 French Open titles in the last 20 years and just lost four matches out of 116 he has played in Paris. This honor featured notable members with his former rivals, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray, with his family.

Soon after the event, the evening session was set to take place at the French Open 2025. On the court where Nadal was honored, Ben Shelton and his opponent, Lorenzo Sonego, were gearing up for their first round of the French Open 2025. The American stalwart managed to win against the Italian to storm into the next round.

Also Read: French Open 2025 without Rafael Nadal: How will the tournament unfold without its greatest champion?

How did Nadal's tribute inspire Ben Shelton in the 2025 French Open?

After the win, the 22-year-old tennis star opened up about his thoughts on playing on the same court where Nadal was honored. Shelton stated that Nadal's ceremony had given him goosebumps ahead of his game, and the way he won after the ceremony was a 'dream come true' moment for him.

"I thought it was a typo at first, a mix-up, and it was actually Court 7. I was really excited, I couldn’t believe it. It was really special. Obviously, having Rafa’s ceremony before the match; it gives you goosebumps just being out here on this court. To get a win the way that I did, in five sets, late at night, was a dream come true," he said (via Roland Garros).

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