Paris, May 26 (H.S.): Fourteen-time French Open champion and former Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal received an emotional farewell on Sunday during a special ceremony held on Court Philippe Chatrier at the Roland Garros complex. The 38-year-old Nadal announced his retirement from tennis last November, and on this occasion, thousands of spectators stood up to honor him.
During the ceremony, Nadal became very emotional when he watched a video showcasing highlights from his career. He said, I don’t know where to start… I have been playing on this court for the last 20 years. I have experienced pain here, tasted victory, and seen defeat. The deepest emotions of my life are tied to this court.
Spectators wearing T-shirts of various colors presented a stunning sight with 14 RG, Rafa, as a way to honor Nadal for his 14 French Open titles. The entire stadium resonated with applause and cheers.
All of Nadal’s family members were present at the ceremony—his uncle and former coach Toni Nadal, father Sebastián Nadal, mother Ana María Perera, wife María Francisca Perelló, sister María Isabel, and son Rafa Jr. shared this historic moment.
Additionally, current French Open women’s champion Iga Swiatek from Poland, men’s champion Carlos Alcaraz from Spain, and his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero also attended the ceremony. Both players will begin defending their titles on Monday.
Nadal’s biggest rivals, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray, also made special appearances at the ceremony. The sight of all four legends together brought tears to the audience’s eyes. Nadal stated, After so many years of rivalry, seeing all this today is very emotional. Time changes everything.
Both Federer and Djokovic embraced Nadal. Notably, three years ago, Nadal had played alongside Federer in his farewell match, a photo of which went viral on social media, showing both legends holding hands and looking emotional.
Nadal, Djokovic, Federer, and Murray—the ‘Big Four’—have taken tennis to new heights over the past two decades. Nadal has won 22 Grand Slams, Federer 20, Djokovic 24, and Murray 3.
This farewell at Roland Garros was not just for one player but felt like saying goodbye to a golden era.
—————
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
