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.”
Legendary moment with the legends of the game @rogerfederer @DjokerNole @andy_murray 🥹#RolandGarros @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/kfnQFIWFsS
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 25, 2025
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.”
Emotional times on Philippe-Chatrier 🥲#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/DKyz9ESRc8
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 25, 2025
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.
