Roland Garros bids heartfelt farewell to Rafael Nadal: ‘You made me feel like a Frenchman,’ says legend

Rafael Nadal was honoured on Sunday (May 25) at Roland Garros in one of the most heartwarming moments in tennis history. The legend was given a farewell at the place where he built his legacy. Nadal, who officially retired last November, returned to the French Open, not to play, but to receive an emotional goodbye from his fans.

Tribute to Rafael Nadal

The stadium was packed with thousands of supporters wearing orange shirts that read “Merci Rafa” (Thank you, Rafa). Nadal walked onto the clay court one last time and was welcomed with applause. The 38-year-old tennis icon had tears in his eyes.

“I don’t know where to start after playing on this court for the past 20 years,” Nadal said while delivering his speech. “Winning, losing, but especially being moved every time I have had the chance to be here.”

Rafael Nadal's unmatchable record

Rafael Nadal’s record at the French Open remains unmatched. He retired having played 115 French Open matches, dominating the red clay for years, earning him the undisputed title of “King of Clay."

He won 14 French Open titles (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022). Notably, he won the French Open without losing a set four times - in 2008, 2010, 2017, and 2020.

Rafael Nadal honoured with a plaque

To honour Rafa, officials presented him with a special trophy and installed a permanent plaque on the court. The plaque features the years of Nadal’s 14 titles and his footprint, symbolising the mark he has left on Roland Garros.

"It's a present that I can't describe in words," Nadal expressed.

"But for me it was and it is and it's always going to be a huge honour and very, very emotional to have this spot on the most important court of my tennis career, without a doubt," he added.

Rafael Nadal's emotional words for fans

Nadal, who has shared a deep connection with the French crowd, expressed heartfelt gratitude in his speech.

“Thank you, France. Thank you, Paris. You have given me emotions and moments I could never have imagined...You made me feel like a Frenchman,” he said.

A legend among legends

Rafael Nadal was joined by his greatest rivals and legendary players, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. Together, the Big Four stood on the court, no longer as competitors but as friends.

Rafael Nadal's legacy

The curtains came down on Rafael Nadal’s journey at Roland Garros. Even though he will not play again at the French Open, his legacy will live on, not just in records, but in the hearts of his fans around the world.

The French Open 2025 women's final is scheduled for Saturday, June 7, and the men's final is scheduled for Sunday, June 8.