Rafael Nadal received a heartfelt tribute at Roland Garros on Sunday, marking his official farewell to the French Open and celebrating one of tennis’s most extraordinary careers.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion was visibly moved as the crowd at Court Philippe-Chatrier erupted in applause. Nadal, who retired from professional tennis last November, struggled to contain his emotions throughout the ceremony.
“It was perfect,” Nadal said after the event. “I couldn’t expect a more emotional day.”
Nadal’s final competitive match at Roland Garros was a first-round loss to Alexander Zverev a year ago. At the time, he had not yet confirmed his retirement, which he later announced would take place at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.
Regardless, Roland Garros was always destined to be the stage for his farewell, having won the tournament 14 times with an astounding 112-4 record.
The French Tennis Federation orchestrated a moving spectacle. Spectators wore orange shirts emblazoned with “Merci Rafa,” while a coordinated display of white shirts spelled out “14 RG” with a trophy and heart symbols.
Nadal delivered a speech in French, English and Spanish, thanking his family—parents, coach uncle Toni Nadal, wife Mery, and their young son Rafael—and acknowledging the presence of fellow players such as Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek.
The ceremony reached a poignant peak when Nadal was joined on court by his biggest rivals: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray.
Reflecting on their rivalry and friendship, Nadal said, “It’s a great message for the world that best rivals… are able to be good colleagues, to respect each other.”
In a later press conference, Nadal shared a humorous exchange with Murray, noting the camaraderie between them despite competitive tensions.
The event concluded with Roland Garros officials unveiling a plaque bearing Nadal’s footprints and signature, a permanent tribute at the venue.
“It has been unforgettable,” Nadal said. “I enjoyed it, honestly. I suffered a little bit with the emotions, but I enjoyed a lot.”
