Roland Garros paid a touching tribute to Rafael Nadal in one of the most emotional moments the sport has seen. The tennis legend, who retired last November, returned not as a competitor but to receive a heartfelt farewell at the venue where he created his legacy.
Thousands of fans filled the stadium, many dressed in orange shirts with “Merci Rafa” (Thank you, Rafa) printed on them. Nadal stepped onto the clay court one final time, greeted by thunderous applause. The 38-year-old was visibly emotional, with tears in his eyes.
“In these past 20 years on this court, I don’t even know where to begin,” Nadal said during his speech. “There were wins, losses, but most of all, deep emotions every time I got to play here.”
Rafael Nadal’s achievements at the French Open remain unparalleled. Over the course of his career, he played 115 matches at Roland Garros, dominating the clay like no other and earning the well-deserved nickname “King of Clay.”
He secured 14 French Open titles (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2022). Remarkably, he clinched the title without dropping a single set in four of those years — 2008, 2010, 2017, and 2020.
Special Honour for Nadal
To commemorate his incredible legacy, tournament officials awarded Nadal a special trophy and unveiled a permanent plaque on the court. The plaque bears the years of his 14 victories and includes his footprint, symbolising the indelible impact he has left on Roland Garros.
“It’s a gift beyond words,” Nadal said.
“For me, it was, it is, and it will always be an incredible honour and deeply emotional to have a place on the court that means the most in my tennis journey, without question,” he added.
Rafael Nadal’s heartfelt message to fans
Nadal, who has always had a strong bond with the French audience, conveyed his sincere thanks during his speech.
“Thank you, France. Thank you, Paris. You’ve given me unforgettable emotions and moments beyond anything I could have dreamed of… You made me feel like one of your own,” he shared.
A true legend among legends
Rafael Nadal was accompanied by his fiercest rivals and fellow tennis icons—Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. United on the court, the Big Four appeared not as opponents but as close friends.
Rafael Nadal’s chapter at Roland Garros has come to an end. While he won’t compete at the French Open again, his legacy will endure—etched not only in record books but also in the hearts of fans worldwide.
The main draws for the men’s and women’s singles at the French Open 2026 were held on Monday, May 25. The women’s final is set for Saturday, June 7, while the men’s final will take place on Sunday, June 8.