It has been an incredible story, says Rafael Nadal after been honoured during unforgettable Roland Garros ceremony

Rafael Nadal was given a fitting farewell by Roland Garros on Sunday. Nadal had called it a day after Davis Cup quarterfinals loss against the Netherlands in 2024 and he was honored by the French Open, a tournament which he won on 14 occasions in his glorious career.

Nadal’s record of 14 Roland Garros is the most for any tennis player at a single slam and many believe it might never be broken. Court Philippe-Chatrier was filled with Nadal fans, who gave him a standing ovation once he entered his realm. 

More fittingly, Nadal made his Roland Garros debut on 25th May, 21 years ago. On Sunday, he entered the court as the most successful player to have ever played in Paris.

“Good evening everyone, this is difficult for me,” said Nadal, fighting back the tears. “I don’t know how to start after having played on this court during the past 20 years. To have enjoyed, suffered, won, lost… Above all, [I’m] emotional that I had the chance to play here.

“My infinite gratitude to Gilles [Moretton], Amelie [Mauresmo] and the entire Roland Garros team for giving me the opportunity to have this farewell on without a doubt the most important tennis court in my career.”

Nadal’s footprints were also imprinted on the side of the court, which would stay there forever. When it was unveiled, Nadal was seen in tears.

Nadal’s long-time rivals and friends, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray were also present during the ceremony.

“It has been an incredible story that began back in 2004 when I came to Roland Garros for the very first time. I could barely walk due to my foot injury but that year I climbed to the top of the court on my crutches,” Nadal said. “I dreamed of coming back the following year. In 2005, I was finally able to play here for the first time. I was 18 years old and my first major experience was the match that I played against my childhood friend and rival Richard Gasquet. From that day on, I fully understood what Roland Garros meant.

“I experienced everything over these 20 years. I have had incredible rivals — like Andy, Novak and of course Roger — and many others who pushed me to my physical and mental limits. Truly nothing would be as thrilling without these long-lasting rivalries that have driven all of us to improve every single day. Roland Garros is unique. Not only because it is a fundamental part of history but for all the people who work tirelessly, with a smile, to make this tournament what it is, unique.”

Nadal’s legacy will always live at Roland Garros, and his career will always inspire the young generation.