PARIS — Russian tennis star Daria Kasatkina paid a playful tribute to Rafael Nadal during her third-round victory at the French Open, mimicking the 14-time champion’s iconic pre-serve routine in a lighthearted moment that delighted fans at Roland Garros.
Kasatkina, seeded No. 10, defeated Belgium’s Elise Mertens 6-3, 6-4 on Saturday to advance to the fourth round. During the match, she humorously imitated Nadal’s trademark habits—adjusting her shorts, tucking her hair behind her ears, and bouncing the ball multiple times before serving. The crowd erupted in laughter and applause as she grinned at the homage.
Kasatkina’s Nadal Tribute Goes Viral
The moment quickly went viral on social media, with fans praising Kasatkina’s humor and sportsmanship. "I couldn’t resist," Kasatkina admitted in her post-match press conference. "Rafa is a legend here, and I just wanted to have a little fun. Maybe it brought me some of his luck!"
Nadal, who missed this year’s French Open due to injury, has long been synonymous with Roland Garros. His meticulous pre-serve rituals—often lasting over 20 seconds—have become as iconic as his relentless baseline game. Kasatkina’s imitation was spot-on, down to the exaggerated ball bounces and quick glances at her opponent.
A Resurgent Kasatkina Eyes Deep Run
Beyond the playful moment, Kasatkina’s performance signaled her return to form. The 27-year-old, once ranked as high as No. 8, struggled in 2023 but has rebounded strongly this season. Her victory over Mertens marked her 25th win of the year, and she now faces a winnable fourth-round clash against either Paula Badosa or Anastasia Potapova.
Kasatkina’s game—built on crafty angles, deft drop shots, and relentless consistency—has drawn comparisons to Nadal’s own tactical brilliance. "She’s one of the smartest players on tour," said former champion Martina Navratilova in commentary. "Like Rafa, she thinks several shots ahead."
Key Stats from Kasatkina’s Win
- Won 72% of first-serve points
- Converted 4 of 7 break points
- Hit 18 winners to Mertens’ 12
- Improved to 3-0 head-to-head against Mertens
Nadal’s Legacy Looms Large
Nadal’s absence this year has left a void at the French Open, where he has dominated for nearly two decades. Kasatkina’s tribute underscored how much his presence is missed. "Rafa is the king here," she said. "Even when he’s not playing, his spirit is everywhere."
The Spaniard, who has hinted at retirement after 2024, last competed at Roland Garros in 2023, losing in the first round to Alexander Zverev. His record 14 titles and 112-3 win-loss record remain unmatched in tennis history.
What’s Next for Kasatkina?
Kasatkina, a 2022 French Open semifinalist, will aim to replicate that success this year. A potential quarterfinal clash with world No. 1 Iga Świątek looms, but Kasatkina remains unfazed. "I’m playing with confidence," she said. "Every match is a new challenge, and I’m ready."
Her Nadal impression may have been lighthearted, but her ambitions are serious. With her blend of tactical intelligence and renewed self-belief, Kasatkina could be a dark horse in Paris—especially if she keeps channeling a bit of Rafa’s magic.
As for Nadal himself, he took the imitation in stride. Responding to a fan’s tweet of the moment, he wrote: "Haha, nice try @DKasatkina—but you forgot the sleeveless shirt!"
The exchange capped off a memorable day at Roland Garros, where even in absence, Nadal’s influence endures. Kasatkina’s homage was a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that define tennis—even amid fierce competition.