After switching to an unfamiliar October slot in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, the French Open returns to the late Parisian spring this year.
The Spaniard is the favourite to defend his crown once again when the tournament begins on Sunday, although Serbia's world number one Novak Djokovic will expect to provide the toughest challenge at Roland Garros.
Nadal is aiming to win a record 21st men's major title and move clear of Switzerland's Roger Federer, who returns after missing last year's tournament through injury.
Polish teenager Iga Swiatek is bidding to become the first player to successfully defend a Grand Slam women's title since Serena Williams at Wimbledon in 2016, but faces competition from Ashleigh Barty - the world number one and 2019 Roland Garros champion - who returns to the Paris clay following a 13-month hiatus during the pandemic.