SPORTSDISTINCTION  08.25

French Open Honors Rafael Nadal

The famous clay courts of Roland Garros in Paris, France, paid a moving ceremonial tribute to the King of Clay Courts, Rafael Nadal on May 27, 2025, at the French Open Tennis after he announced his official retirement earlier.

Thousands of fans including defending men’s and women’s champions Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek wore brick-red “Merci Rafa” shirts before 14-time Roland Garros champion Nadal was immortalized on Court Philippe Chatrier with a plaque.

The loudest cheers came when fellow tennis legends Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray stepped onto the hallowed clay court to share a few words and laughs with Nadal after the Spaniard had tears welled up watching a video of his greatest moments.

Nadal went off with grace, delivering his speech in three languages as a mark of respect. His permanent 14-time champion footprint is indelibly marked in a place that will remember him for perpetuity.

Rafael Nadal said the presence of his friends and rivals Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray during a celebration of his glorious career at the French Open made an emotional Sunday evening all the more special. The historical event marked the end of an era in men’s tennis in which the “Big Four” dominated and brought a special brand of respect to the sport.

The moving farewell displayed a massive amount of human-inspiring soul.