Nadal honoured at French Open as tennis icons join emotional tribute

·

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal was honoured in an emotional farewell ceremony at Roland-Garros, with fellow champions Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray joining the tribute.

The event marked the symbolic end of an era in men’s tennis dominated by the four icons.

Nadal, who holds a record 14 French Open titles and a 112-4 win-loss record at the event, addressed a packed Court Philippe-Chatrier in French, English, and Spanish.

“This final farewell from, without a doubt, the most important tennis court of my career,” he said.

“I’ve had incredible rivals, like Andy, Novak and of course Roger… nothing would have been as thrilling without these long-lasting rivalries,” Nadal reflected. He also praised the tournament staff, calling Roland-Garros “unique.”

The tribute included a video montage and a surprise appearance by Federer, Djokovic, and Murray. Nadal embraced each, calling their presence “a great message for the world” about sportsmanship and mutual respect.

“You don’t need to hate the opponent to try to beat him… that’s our legacy,” he said.

Nadal’s family, including wife Mery Xisca Perelló and son Rafael Jr, were in attendance, along with sports figures such as Yannick Noah, Pau Gasol, and Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley. Fellow Spaniard David Ferrer, whom Nadal beat in the 2013 final, was also present.

Addressing Djokovic, Nadal said: “All the nerves, pressure… it’s completely different when you finish your career. At the end, all of us achieved our dreams.”

Nadal’s legendary run was marked with a commemorative clay footprint plate on centre court. While Federer and Murray have retired, Djokovic — who turns 38 this week — remains active, holding a record 24 Grand Slam titles. Nadal has 22, Federer 20, and Murray three.

Their historic rivalries include Nadal-Djokovic’s 60 encounters — the most in the Open era — with Djokovic leading 31-29. Nadal led Federer 24-16 and Murray 17-7.

“They represent a very important part of my tennis career… one of that four was always winning the tournament,” Nadal said.

In a symbolic handover, rising star Carlos Alcaraz greeted the quartet following the ceremony.

Source: ABC.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Novak Djokovic reportedly considering move to Athens via Golden Visa program

Novak Djokovic is reportedly considering relocating to Greece, following a recent visit where he dined with Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

George Kambosos Jr defeated by Richardson Hitchins in brutal world title fight

Australian boxer George Kambosos has suffered a decisive TKO loss to IBF super lightweight champion Richardson Hitchins.

Jail for husband who left wife Georgina Vlahos paralysed after firing gun through ceiling

Georgina Vlahos, a Sydney woman left paralysed after her husband fired a gun into their home, will require lifelong specialised care.

South Melbourne stun Preston Lions with last-minute wonder goal

In a match full of intensity and drama, South Melbourne FC secured a vital 2-1 win over the Preston Lions FC, earning much-needed points.

Renowned Greek clarinetist Petroloukas Halkias passes away

Petroloukas Halkias, the legendary clarinetist and leading figure in the traditional music of Epirus, has died at the age of 90.

You May Also Like

Maria Sakkari loses Tokyo Olympics thriller, still makes Greeks proud

Maria Sakkari has been defeated in the third round of the Tokyo Olympics by Ukrainian Elina Svitolina, 5-7 6-3 6-4.

Pfizer CEO, Albert Bourla, receives top Greek honour for his work developing COVID vaccine

Albert Bourla was awarded the medal of the Golden Cross of the Order of the Redeemer by Greek President, Katerina Sakellaropoulou.

Murder charge for Kerry Kourpanidis could be downgraded

Kerry Kourpanidis will soon learn whether prosecutors will push on with a murder charge over the bashing death of Warren Hordpenko.