Rafael Nadal‘s statue at Roland-Garros isn’t just a tribute to the king of clay—it’s becoming a pop culture icon in its own right. This towering figure of Nadal’s signature forehand is now crossing over from the tennis courts to the small screen, making a cameo in none other than the hit show Emily in Paris. Yes, you read that right—Nadal’s immortalized figure has found its way into the glitzy world of French rom-com drama, adding a little Grand Slam flair to the Parisian backdrop.

Unveiled in 2021, the 3-meter-tall stainless-steel statue was crafted by artist Jordi Díez Fernandez to honor Nadal’s unparalleled dominance on the Parisian clay. With 14 French Open titles under his belt, it’s only fitting that his powerful forehand, the stroke that terrorized opponents, is frozen in time just outside the gates of Roland-Garros. Standing next to the Jardin des Mousquetaires, Nadal’s monument welcomes tennis lovers and fans of all kinds as they step onto the grounds of tennis history.

But Nadal’s reign over Roland-Garros transcends the sport. Netflix gave the Spanish legend a moment in the spotlight in the fourth season of Emily in Paris, where Nadal’s statue appears as part of a tennis-themed montage. Filming at Court Philippe-Chatrier, the show pays homage to the French Open, and of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the tournament’s greatest champion.

This isn’t the first time tennis has flirted with Hollywood. From Zendaya’s Challengers raking in over $94 million worldwide to Netflix’s Break Point offering a behind-the-scenes peek into the world of professional tennis, the sport is leaving its mark on pop culture. And when it comes to tennis legends, Nadal’s name is synonymous with the French Open, a tournament where he has carved his legacy into the very clay itself.

From movies to TV shows, the intersection of tennis and entertainment is growing stronger every year. But at Roland-Garros, it’s still Rafa’s house, and now he’s got the statue (and a Netflix cameo) to prove it.

Rafael Nadal’s connection with Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal has frequently shown his sincere appreciation for the affection and assistance he gets in Paris, particularly at Roland Garros. Nadal revealed to the media in May how much power and motivation he gets from his supporters’ constant support. He made it clear that he has a particular place in his heart for the French Open.

In a previous interview, he said, “I enjoy every time I have the chance to be here. I feel amazing support from the people, and that gives me a lot of power. Emotionally, it’s something that will stay with me forever. This place is magical for me.”

In addition, he also reflected peacefully on his career following an unexpected first-round elimination at the 2024 French Open. “If it’s the last time that I played here, I am in peace with myself,” he remarked with a smile, embracing the possibility of it being his final appearance at Roland Garros. With 14 victories under his belt, Nadal has left an enduring legacy at the French Open that makes him the most successful player in the competition’s history and inextricably linked to the clay courts of Paris.