Rafael Nadal's US Open-winning shirt sold for staggering $72,000
The shirt that Rafael Nadal sported during his 2010 US Open final win over Novak Djokovic has been sold for a staggering $72,000. The victory in that match marked the first of the Spaniard's four men's singles titles at Flushing Meadows.
Nadal met Djokovic for the 22nd time on the ATP Tour in the final of the 2010 US Open, with the former winning 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-2. The title triumph helped Nadal complete the Career Golden Slam (all four Majors and Olympics gold medal) as well as the Surface Slam (clay, grass and hard court Grand Slam titles in the same calendar year).
Recently, SCP Auctions brokered the sale of the shirt Nadal wore on that famous night in Flushing Meadows. It was sold for a whopping $72,000, including buyer's premium, as reported by ESPN.
Brendan Wells, the Vice President of Acquisitions and Sales at SCP Auctions, spoke highly of Nadal in an interview with ESPN. According to Wells, the shirt is a testament to the Spaniard's legacy.
"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," Wells said.
Nadal won the US Open men's singles title again in the 2013, 2017 and 2019 editions of the prestigious hard court Major, beating Djokovic, Kevin Anderson and Daniil Medvedev in the finals respectively.
Rafael Nadal has pulled out from the US Open 2024, with his 2022 outing possibly being his last at Flushing Meadows
Nadal recently announced that he would not feature at this year's US Open, even though his name was initially present on the entry list. The 22-time Major winner said he isn't feeling adequately competitive in the buildup to the hard court Grand Slam.
"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," Nadal announced via a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The Spaniard's last US Open outing came in 2022, when he reached the fourth round before suffering a shock exit at the hands of eventual semifinalist Frances Tiafoe. Considering the the fact that Nadal's career is now winding down, it could very well be that the Mallorcan has already played for the last time at Flushing Meadows.