Spanish newspapers featured Rafael Nadal on their front pages today after his unexpected opportunity to carry the Olympic torch through the Seine River during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Games on Friday, July 26.
This event, watched by millions, saw the two-time Olympic gold medalist receive the flame from former French footballer and 1998 Ballon d’Or winner Zinedine Zidane.
Ángel García revealed on El Partidazo de COPE that the Mayor of Paris had contacted Nadal, saying, “You are an image of Paris, a part of its history, one of the most important figures in Parisian history. As the most Parisian of international athletes, we want you to have a very significant role in the ceremony.”
Take a look at all the stunning covers capturing this historic moment.
No one deserved this honour more than the great Rafael Nadal. An icon to tennis and athlete to the world. A heartwarming gesture
Rafa Nadal sangat pantas mendapatkan nya. Cinta selalu untuk Rafa
Did Rafa pass the flame to someone else, who lit the cauldron?
So well deserved❤️❤️❤️
Oh Rafa. The world loves you. What a special moment to see you. Love always.
I was frozen with delight when he turned up to met Zidane ! Lookin amazing in his red blazer with pride , love and historical awareness in his eyes , a complete sporting icon who has given so much of himself and his simplicity to us tennis fans and to children as an example for an achiever with modesty und humility .
Well done the French for giving him this key role in their opening ceremony ! But after all he is and will always be the King of clay and ~Roland Garros , where he returns tonight . Vamps Rafa and thank you ! ❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏👏👏👏
Yes a well-deserved honour for Rafa! So proud of him always!!
This is a confirmation and validation that Rafael Nadal is a French Icon and a French Legend of sports !
Yes to both comments above.
Is Rafa’s doubles match today still on? Looks like the other men’s doubles matches have canceled. Thanks for any info.
Yes, it is still on since Chatrier has a roof. It is scheduled for 1pm edt in the US.
What a great honor for our champignon, probably a moment he will never forget.
Thank you Paris for this gesture 🙏
He deserved this honor! Was unreal to see!