Rafael Nadal ousted in first round of Roland Garros by Alexander Zverev
Rafael Nadal will not be adding a 15th Roland Garros title to his collection this year. The “King of Clay” was defeated in the first round by Alexander Zverev in straight sets (6-3, 7-6, 6-3) on Monday, May 27. This marks Nadal’s first match in 722 days and his fourth-ever loss at Roland Garros.
Despite a valiant effort, the Spaniard couldn’t overcome the formidable German, who is ranked world number 4.
Nadal faced a tough opponent in Zverev, whom he knows well, especially after their intense semifinal clash two years ago, which ended with Zverev’s injury.
The match wasn’t extraordinary but still provided an engaging duel. Zverev started strong, breaking Nadal’s serve early and maintaining a high first-serve success rate (78%), securing the first set with solid play.
The second set was the most competitive. Rafael Nadal broke early but couldn’t capitalize, faltering at a crucial 5-4 lead. In the tiebreak, Zverev dominated, increasing the pressure on Nadal.
For only the second time in his Roland Garros career, Nadal found himself down two sets.
He fought hard to stay in the match but ultimately lacked the energy to turn it around against the 27-year-old Zverev.
The match took place under the watchful eyes of Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz.
Despite the loss, Nadal has not closed the door on a return in 2025, though he acknowledged the uncertainty: «It’s hard for me to say what will happen. There’s a strong chance I won’t return, but I can’t say 100% because I love coming here».
Nadal’s record at Roland Garros remains impressive, with 14 titles to his name, won in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2022.
