What lies beneath

On a Sunday afternoon, a sea of fans donned in orange “Merci Rafa” shirts gathered to honour Rafael Nadal as he made his final appearance on the clay court.

- SURESH NARAYANAN

The undisputed ‘King of Clay’ and a 14-time French Open champion—a feat unparalleled in the history of the sport—took his last bow on the Court Philippe-Chatrier. Nadal fought back tears and delivered a heartfelt speech and reflected on two decades of triumphs, challenges and unforgettable memories at Roland Garros. Nadal’s legacy is one of passion, humility and sportsmanship—qualities that will continue to inspire future generations.

Tennis is deeply rooted in a set of core values that shape its culture, competitive spirit and the behaviour of its players. Each match serves as a reflection of life’s challenges and victories. The ability to remain composed under pressure and to learn from one's mistakes are skills cultivated on the court. From resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity to grace and humility in both victory and defeat, these attributes are invaluable in any endeavour.