PHOTOS/VIDEO: Rafael Nadal and other tennis players met with Prince Albert II at the Royal Palace in Monte Carlo

Stars of the ATP Tour join H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco ahead of Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters

This week, the ATP Tour's elite will vie for the coveted trophy at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, with glory in the Principality on the line.

But first, a select group had the privilege of being received by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco at the Palace. The Prince has long been an integral participant of the tournament, taking in the action every year.

On Sunday, he welcomed top seed Novak Djokovic, 11-time champion Rafael Nadal, as well as Alexander Zverev, Dominic Thiem, Kei Nishikori, Marin Cilic, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Felix Auger-Aliassime, David Goffin, Daniil Medvedev and Mischa Zverev. Nishikori finished runner-up last year, while Auger-Aliassime is coming off a semi-final finish at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Miami.

At the opening of the 113th edition of the prestigious tournament, the 11 players visited the Throne Room in the State apartments and discovered the Palace Tank, and entered the Mirror Gallery for a cocktail. Djokovic presented two balls signed by all the players present for the royal children H.S.H. Crown Prince Jacques and H.S.H. Princess Gabriella.

Source: ATP World Tour

Photos: Rolex Monte Carlo Masters