Overwhelmed with Emotions Rafael Nadal Fails to Hold Back Tears During Special Tribute Ceremony at French Open 2025

King of Clay Rafael Nadal returned to his castle on Sunday, i.e., the Court Philippe-Chatrier, and was rendered with a special tribute at the Roland Garros. A ceremony was held in respect for Nadal on the opening day of the French Open 2025. Rafael Nadal retired from Tennis in November 2024. He finished with 14 French Open titles, a milestone that may forever remain unbreached.

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Rafael Nadal Could Not Hold Back Tears

The ceremony showcased a montage of some of Rafael Nadal's most memorable moments in the French Open. Witnessing the highlights, Nadal could not hold back tears. The special occasion became perfect as the crowd stood up for the Spaniard, and posters of "Merci Rafa" were present all over the Court Philippe-Chatrier.

The occasion called for Rafa to spare a few words, and he spoke his heart out.

“This is tough," he began, in French. “Good evening, everyone. I don’t know where to start after playing on this court for the past 20 years. Winning, losing — but especially being moved every time I’ve had the chance to be here.”

The special event became even more special as the biggest rivals of Nadal's career- Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray- were also present during the tribute ceremony. 

“We showed the world that we can fight as hard as possible, but being good colleagues and respecting each other very well. And for me, it means a lot that you are all here,” Nadal told the players with whom he was grouped as the Big Four of men’s tennis. “You gave me some hard times on court, honestly, but I really enjoyed pushing myself to the limit every single day to compete with all of you.”

“Thank you, France. Thank you, Paris. You have given me emotions and moments I could never have imagined. You can never know how gratifying it is to be appreciated in the place that matters most. … You made me feel like a Frenchman,” Nadal said. “I can no longer play in front of you anymore, but my heart and my memories will always be linked to this magical place.”