Abhay Singh
The shirt Rafael Nadal wore in his 2010 US Open championship match victory over Novak Djokovic sold for an incredible $72,000, breaking the record for most match worn tennis shirt.
The Spaniard won his first of four Flushing Meadows men’s singles championships with the victory.
The title triumph helped the former World No. 1 to complete the Career Golden Slam
In the 2010 US Open final, Nadal faced Djokovic for the 22nd time on the ATP Tour. In the end, the Spaniard defeated the Serb 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-2. The victory helped the former world no. 1 accomplish the Surface Slam (winning the clay, grass, and hard court Grand Slams in the same calendar year) and the Career Golden Slam (winning all four Majors and an Olympic gold medal).
SCP Auctions brokered the sale of the shirt Nadal wore on Flushing Meadows, selling it for $72,000, including buyer’s premium, according to ESPN.
In an admission to ESPN, Brendan Wells, Vice President of Acquisitions and Sales at SCP Auctions, expressed his admiration for Rafael Nadal. Wells claims that the record-breaking shirt worn during the contest is evidence of the Spanish player’s significant legacy.
Wells said “Rafa is beloved by sports fans worldwide for his toughness, resiliency and class, a true champion both on and off the court. This record price proves that his legacy resonates with collectors,”
Nadal declared recently that he would not be competing in the US Open this year
Nadal won the US Open men’s singles title in 2013, 2017, and 2019, defeating Novak Djokovic, Kevin Anderson, and Daniil Medvedev in the finals.
Nadal, a 22-time Major winner, has announced he will not be featured at this year’s US Open, despite being initially listed on the entry list, stating he is not feeling competitive enough in the preparations for the hard court Grand Slam.
Nadal recently posted on X saying “Hi all, writing today to let you guys know that I have decided not to compete at this year’s US Open a place where I have amazing memories. I will miss those electric and special night sessions in NYC at Ashe, but I don’t think I would be able to give my 100% this time. Thanks to all my US Fans in particular, will miss you all and will see you another time. Best of lucks to all for the always amazing US Open! My next event will be the Laver Cup in Berlin,”
The Spaniard’s last appearance at the US Open was in 2022, when he advanced to the fourth round before losing to eventual semifinalist Frances Tiafoe. Given that Nadal’s career is undoubtedly coming to an end, it’s possible that the Mallorcan has already played his final match in Flushing Meadows.
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