Paris, France – June 2, 2025
In an emotional moment that will be etched in tennis history, Rafael Nadal bid farewell to Roland Garros on Monday evening, marking the end of an era at the French Open. The 14-time champion, who turned Philippe-Chatrier into his personal coliseum over the past two decades, played what many believe will be his final match on the storied clay.
But while Nadal’s loss in the fourth round was met with tears and standing ovations from the Parisian crowd, it was the outpouring of admiration from fellow players that truly captured the tennis world’s heart.
Coco Gauff: “You inspired a whole generation”
Coco Gauff, the young American star and current world No. 3, posted an emotional tribute to Nadal on social media.
> “I watched you growing up, dreaming of one day playing on the same court. To now share these moments as a fellow competitor is surreal. You inspired a whole generation with your fight, humility, and heart. Merci, Rafa.”
She later added in a press conference, “Rafa is the blueprint of how to carry yourself—on and off the court. He’s not just one of the greatest players ever, but one of the greatest people.”
Carlos Alcaraz: “Gracias, Maestro”
Carlos Alcaraz, often dubbed Nadal’s heir apparent in Spanish tennis, was visibly emotional as he watched Nadal’s final moments courtside.
> “I wouldn’t be here without Rafa,” Alcaraz said. “He was my idol growing up, and he still is. He made us believe that anything is possible if you work hard enough. Gracias, Maestro.”
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Alcaraz shared a photo of the two Spaniards hugging after Nadal’s match with the caption: “El fin de una era, el comienzo de un legado eterno.”
Iga Swiatek: “Rafa taught me to love the clay”
World No. 1 Iga Swiatek, a self-proclaimed Nadal superfan, paid tribute during her post-match interview after advancing to the quarterfinals.
> “Rafa taught me how to love the clay court. Watching his matches at Roland Garros was part of my childhood, part of what made me fall in love with tennis. Today is very emotional.”
Swiatek also wore a black-and-gold patch with Nadal’s signature bull logo on her jacket during her walkout—an homage to the clay court king.
Novak Djokovic: “A warrior, a legend, a friend”
Even fierce rival Novak Djokovic joined the chorus of respect, sending Nadal a public message via a video played on the big screen after the match:
> “We battled for years, and every time we stepped on the court, I knew I had to give everything. Rafa, you pushed me to be better. You are a warrior, a legend, and above all, a friend.”
The Serbian champion also hinted at a private farewell dinner the two shared ahead of the tournament.
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As night fell over Paris, the iconic clay of Court Philippe-Chatrier remained still, but the echoes of Nadal’s footsteps, grunts, and triumphs lingered in the air. Fans held banners reading “Merci Rafa” and “Forever the King of Clay”, while many stayed long after the match, reluctant to let go.
Whether or not Nadal officially announces retirement in the coming weeks, one thing is certain: Roland Garros will never be the same.
Merci, Rafa.