Rafael Nadal's racket used in the 2007 Roland Garros final win over Roger Federer has been placed on auction, with the item expected to receive bids up to $150,000.
Nadal used the famous racket on his way to a third career Roland Garros title in 2007, when the Spanish player defeated former great Roger Federer in the final. However, Nadal also used the racket in previous rounds where he famously navigated one of his toughest Grand Slam runs, facing the likes of Juan Martin Del Potro, Lleyton Hewitt, Carlos Moya, and Novak Djokovic.
The item was previously in the Australian Tennis Museum before the site recently closed. Now, the item will be up for auction on the tennis auction site, Prestige Memorabilia between January 9 and 28, 2024, with starting bids beginning at $10,000.
"Presented is the exact racket that Rafael Nadal used to win the 2007 Roland Garros French Open championship point."
"In a gripping four-set final against Roger Federer, Nadal ultimately collapsed onto his back in triumphant celebration, laying on the iconic clay courts of Roland Garros. It was in this moment of victory that he released the very racket, now up for auction, onto the hallowed red clay."
"Nadal also used this racket in previous matches of the tournament, including in his Semifinal victory against Novak Djokovic. This victory was Nadal's 3rd Grand Slam title."
The 2007 Roland Garros victory was just one of Nadal's victories in Paris as the 37-year-old has since won the Grand Slam 14 times in total, making him the most decorated player in history at the competition.
In addition, the Spanish star has won 22 Grand Slam titles across his 20-year career. In 2024, Nadal made a return to tennis following a 2023 season ruined by injury and surgeries.
But, despite showing signs of promise at the Brisbane International, Nadal sustained an injury and has been ruled out of an Australian Open return in 2024.