Three-time defending champion Rafael Nadal defeated Roger Federer in a rematch of the two previous years' finals, 6–1, 6–3, 6–0 to win the men's singles tennis title at the 2008 French Open.

It marked the third consecutive year that Nadal defeated Federer in the French Open final, and the fourth consecutive year that Nadal defeated Federer at Roland Garros (extending back to the 2005 semifinals).

On all four occasions that Nadal won the French Open, he defeated Federer while the latter was the world No.

He was attempting to complete the career Grand Slam; he would achieve the feat the following year.

1 and three-time champion Gustavo Kuerten; he lost to Paul-Henri Mathieu in the first round.