The 2025 French Open witnessed a historic convergence of past glory and emerging dominance as defending champions Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek delivered commanding performances, while Roland Garros bid farewell to 14-time champion Rafael Nadal in an emotionally charged ceremony.
World No. 2 Alcaraz launched his title defense with a decisive 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Italian qualifier Giulio Zeppieri. The 22-year-old Spaniard, who attended Nadal's retirement ceremony earlier in the tournament, told reporters: "Rafa shaped how we approach this sport. Being part of his final Roland Garros chapter while chasing my own goals creates unforgettable mixed emotions."
Three-time champion Swiatek maintained her clay-court supremacy with a swift 6-2, 6-0 win over qualifier Leolia Jeanjean. The Polish star's victory extends her current winning streak to 18 matches at the Paris major.
As the tournament progresses without its longtime "King of Clay," analysts note the men's draw remains wide open. Alcaraz next faces Hungary's Fabian Marozsan, while Swiatek prepares to meet former US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez in what promises to be a tactical showdown.
