On May 25, 2025, Roland Garros hosted an unforgettable tribute to Rafael Nadal, the 14-time French Open champion, whose dominance on the clay courts earned him the title “King of Clay.” The ceremony, held on Court Philippe-Chatrier, was a celebration of Nadal’s remarkable career, which spanned 115 matches at the tournament and included victories in 2005–2008, 2010–2014, and 2017–2020. Fans, including current stars Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek, donned brick-red “Merci Rafa” shirts, and the crowd’s chants of “Rafa, Rafa” echoed through the stadium. The French Open unveiled a plaque with Nadal’s footprint, immortalizing his legacy. Yet, the presence of his greatest rivals—Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray—made the evening truly special, though a lighthearted moment sparked unexpected controversy.

Nadal, who retired in November 2024 due to persistent injuries, was visibly moved as he watched a four-minute tribute video of his greatest moments. The loudest cheers erupted when Federer, Djokovic, and Murray joined him on court, representing the “Big Four” who defined an era of tennis. Their fierce rivalries pushed the sport to new heights, yet their mutual respect was evident. Nadal spoke of their friendship, saying, “It’s a great message for the world that the toughest rivalries in our sport can coexist with respect.” The crowd cherished this rare reunion, but a playful anecdote shared by Nadal about Murray drew mixed reactions.

Nadal recounted a humorous text from Murray, an avid Arsenal supporter, sent after Arsenal’s 5-1 Champions League victory over Real Madrid, Nadal’s beloved team. “Andy texted me: ‘Hey Rafa, haven’t spoken to you in a while,’” Nadal shared, mimicking Murray’s cheeky tone. The crowd laughed as Nadal described Murray’s British humor, but some fans on social media felt the jest was ill-timed during such an emotional tribute. Posts on X captured the sentiment, with one user writing, “Rafa’s farewell was perfect, but why bring up a football jab? Felt out of place.” Others defended the exchange, noting it reflected the genuine camaraderie among the players.

Djokovic, the only active player of the quartet, also shared reflections, admitting the ceremony made him ponder his own retirement. “I was thinking about my end of the road,” he said, adding that he was proud to still compete but saddened by his rivals’ departures. Federer, who won Roland Garros in 2009, recalled his relief at not facing Nadal that year, joking, “Rafa was at the door saying, ‘Sorry pal, it’s my turn again.’” The lighthearted banter underscored their bond, with Federer noting, “We’re good colleagues, able to have a good time together.”

Despite the overwhelming positivity, the controversy over Murray’s joke lingered online. Some fans felt it detracted from the gravity of Nadal’s farewell, with one X post stating, “Rafa deserved a moment without football rivalry jabs.” Others saw it as a testament to their friendship, with another user commenting, “That’s just Andy being Andy—Rafa loved it!” The debate highlighted the passion of Nadal’s fanbase, protective of his legacy.

Ultimately, the ceremony was a fitting tribute to Nadal’s 14 titles and unmatched clay-court dominance. The presence of Federer, Djokovic, and Murray, alongside gestures like the plaque and “Merci Rafa” shirts, cemented his place in tennis history. While the lighthearted exchanges added warmth, they also reminded fans of the complex emotions tied to farewells in sports. Nadal’s legacy, built on respect and rivalry, will endure far beyond the clay of Roland Garros.