On May 25, 2025, Rafael Nadal, the 14-time French Open champion, was honored with an emotional farewell ceremony at Roland Garros, marking the end of an unparalleled tennis legacy. The 38-year-old Spaniard, who retired in November 2024, stood on Court Philippe-Chatrier, where he amassed a 112-4 record, to address a packed crowd of 15,000 fans wearing “Merci Rafa” shirts. Overcome with emotion, Nadal delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on his 20-year journey and dedicating touching words to his wife, Maria Francisca Perello: “We couldn’t have imagined we’d be here 20 years later as a family.”

The ceremony, held on the first day of the 2025 French Open, celebrated Nadal’s dominance on clay, where he won 14 of his 22 Grand Slam titles. As a video montage of his iconic forehands and “Vamos!” celebrations played, Nadal teared up, joined by his family, including Maria, their two-year-old son Rafa Jr., his parents, sister Maribel, and uncle Toni, his longtime coach. The crowd’s ovation lasted over three minutes, with some fans spelling out “14 RG” and “Rafa” with hearts in the stands. Nadal, dressed in a dark suit, admitted his shyness about being the center of attention but called the day “unforgettable.”

Nadal’s speech, delivered in French, English, and Spanish, traced his Roland Garros journey from 2004, when he watched from the stands on crutches due to a foot injury, to his first title in 2005 at age 18. He thanked the French Tennis Federation, tournament director Amélie Mauresmo, and president Gilles Moretton for the tribute, which included a plaque of his footprint embedded in the clay—a permanent mark of his legacy. “This is the most important tennis court of my career,” he said, his voice breaking.

The presence of rivals Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray, who joined Nadal on court for embraces, added a poignant touch. Nadal praised their “Big Four” rivalries, saying, “We showed the world that you don’t need to hate your opponent to compete with all your force.” He credited them for pushing him to his limits, noting their mutual respect as a legacy for future generations. Djokovic, the only active player among them, is competing in the 2025 tournament, while Federer and Murray, also retired, traveled to Paris for the occasion.

Nadal’s tribute to Maria was a highlight, drawing tears from the crowd. “Mery, you’re my best life partner,” he said, chuckling after losing his prepared notes. “I hope to make you as happy as you’ve made me.” Married since 2019, Nadal and Maria, who met through his sister in 2005, have been a constant presence in each other’s lives. Maria, holding Rafa Jr., stood in the front row, visibly moved. Nadal also honored his uncle Toni, crediting him for his 16 major titles: “You are the reason I am here.”

The ceremony concluded with Nadal waving to the crowd, his son by his side, as fans chanted “Rafa.” Social media posts on X captured the sentiment, with one user writing, “Rafa’s humility and heart are unmatched. His speech to Maria broke me.” Another said, “His legacy isn’t just titles—it’s inspiring millions.” Nadal, who plans to play exhibition matches, expressed peace with retirement, saying, “I don’t miss tennis much because I gave all I had.” His footprint on Court Philippe-Chatrier ensures his legend endures.