Exactly 20 years after making his debut at Roland Garros, Rafael Nadal returned to the French Open one final time not to compete, but to be honoured for a legendary career that changed tennis forever. On May 25, an emotional tribute ceremony was held on Court Philippe Chatrier, celebrating Nadal's unmatched legacy at the tournament he dominated like no other.
Nadal stood in a suit, visibly moved as the crowd of fans all wearing “Merci Rafa” shirts gifted by the organisers cheered and applauded.
The most touching moment came when three familiar faces walked onto the court to join him: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray the remaining members of tennis’s iconic “Big Four.” Nadal shared hugs, private words, and smiles with his long-time rivals and friends, each of whom played a major role in his historic career.
Adding to the emotional weight of the evening, the French Open organisers revealed a permanent tribute to Nadal: his footprint set into the clay of Court Philippe Chatrier.
Rafael Nadal pays tribute to his greatest rival in emotional speech
Nadal quietly watched a short film retracing his incredible French Open journey. As the film ended, a three-minute ovation erupted, and tears rolled down Nadal's cheeks.
"Merci beaucoup," he began in French. "I don't know how to start after having played on this court during the past 20 years. To have enjoyed, suffered, won, lost Above all, I'm emotional that I had the chance to play here."
Nadal also paid tribute to his greatest rivals, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray, who joined him on court for the ceremony.
"I experienced everything over these 20 years. I have had incredible rivals - like Andy, Novak and of course Roger - and many others who pushed me to my physical and mental limits. Truly nothing would be as thrilling without these long lasting rivalries that have driven all of us to improve every single day.
Rafael Nadal's love for French Open
Nadal during his illustrious career won a staggering 14 French Open titles and compiled a near-perfect 114–3 match record. His last appearance at Roland Garros came in 2024, when he was defeated in the first round by Alexander Zverev. But his legacy, especially in Paris, remains untouchable.
As the tribute ended and the crowd roared in appreciation, Nadal, overwhelmed with emotion, couldn’t hold back tears a fitting farewell to the King of Clay.
