Nadal's 2005 Roland Garros Shirt Sells for Record $113,924

Nadal’s 2005 Roland Garros Shirt Sells for Record $113,924

Rafael Nadal’s Iconic 2005 Roland Garros Shirt Sells for Record-Breaking Price

In a testament to the enduring legacy of Rafael Nadal, his iconic green-patterned Nike T-shirt from his maiden Roland Garros triumph in 2005 has fetched a record-breaking price at auction. The shirt, which has become synonymous with Nadal’s early dominance on clay, sold for an astonishing $113,924 at Prestige Memorabilia.

This sale eclipses the previous record held by Roger Federer’s 2009 Roland Garros shirt and shorts, which sold for approximately $95,000. The vast majority of match-worn tennis shirts sold at auction typically fetch no more than $10,000, highlighting the exceptional value placed on Nadal’s historic garment.

The auction, which commenced on July 17, also saw other notable items go under the hammer. Carlos Alcaraz’s 2022 Madrid racquet sold for $20,713, while Ken Rosewall’s 1955 US Open finalist trophy fetched $5,513.

Nadal’s 2005 Roland Garros victory marked a watershed moment in his career. At just 19 years old, he became the youngest player to win the French Open since Michael Chang in 1989. The green-patterned shirt he wore during that triumph has since become an iconic symbol of his dominance on the clay courts of Paris.

The sale of Nadal’s shirt underscores the growing demand for sports memorabilia, particularly items associated with legendary athletes. Collectors and enthusiasts are increasingly willing to pay top dollar for pieces that evoke the greatest moments in sports history.

For more information on The Tennis Auction and previously sold items, visit TheTennisAuction.com.

Messi's Napkin of Promise to Fetch Millions at Auction

Messi’s Napkin of Promise to Fetch Millions at Auction

Lionel Messi’s napkin, a relic from his humble beginnings, is set to fetch a staggering sum at auction. The napkin, estimated to sell for between $380,000 and $635,000, bears the handwritten promise of a contract made to the 13-year-old Messi by FC Barcelona’s sporting director, Carles Rexach.

The napkin, which has been on display in New York, serves as a testament to Messi’s extraordinary journey from a working-class family in Rosario, Argentina, to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time. In 2000, Messi’s talent caught the attention of Barcelona scouts, but the club’s hesitation to sign him outright led to a protracted negotiation.

On December 14, 2000, at a Barcelona tennis club, Rexach, under pressure from Messi’s father, scribbled the promise on the napkin. The napkin became a placeholder agreement until a formal contract could be drawn up.

Messi’s subsequent career at Barcelona was nothing short of legendary. He won the Spanish league 10 times, becoming the club’s all-time top scorer with 474 goals. His departure from Barcelona in 2021 marked the end of an era, but his legacy at the club remains unparalleled.

The napkin, which has been kept by Argentine agent Horacio Gaggioli for almost 25 years, is now being auctioned off. The sale has generated immense interest, with experts predicting it could sell for much more than the estimated price.

The auction, which will run until March 27, will be held in New York, Paris, and London. The napkin is expected to attract bids from collectors and football enthusiasts alike, eager to own a piece of Messi’s remarkable history.

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