On Sunday, Rafael Nadal tried to hold tears during emotional honors to the French Open, where the fourteen champion was honored in front of the full house at Court Philippe Chatrier. The ceremony described the end of the era for the Spaniard, which after the final 2024 Davis Cup in Malaga announced the departure from professional tennis.
Nadal joined the long -time rivals Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray when the organizers of the French Open paid tribute to his legacy. With a record of 112 wins and only four losses in Roland Garros, Nadal holds one of the most dominant records in the history of Grand Slam. His 14 titles at the French Open is the most player in one major, while 11 Australian Open Margaret Court titles are seconds.
The 37 -year -old man went to the playground with a dark suit and dress and received an ovation from 15,000 fans for participation. Unlike what he entered the court prepared for the competition, this time Nadal stopped, waved and took at the moment. The stadium, which ruled for almost two decades, gave him one final ovation.
During his speech, Nadal paid tribute to his uncle and a long -time coach Toni Nadal. “It wasn’t always easy,” he said. “But no doubt it was worth it. You were the best coach I’ve ever had, both in my career and in my life.” Toni Nadal played a central role in shaping Raf’s game and mentality from a young age.
Nadal also talked to his wife Mery and said, “Mery, you’re my best friend.” His relationship with Mery was a constant source of support during his career.
The ceremony came a year after Nadal was eliminated in the first round of 2023 by the French Open by German Alexander Zverev. This match proved to be his last in Roland Garros, although at that time Noval has not yet confirmed his retirement
Published:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
May 25, 2025
