I had no idea what was going to happen": Nadal reflects on his very emotional tribute ceremony at Roland-Garros

© AFP

Jules Hypolite

le 25/05/2025 à 21h09

2 min to read

Nadal Roland Garros

This Sunday, May 25, the tennis world had its eyes on the tribute paid to one of the sport's legends.

In the arena where he was crowned fourteen times, Rafael Nadal received a heartfelt tribute, reunited with his former Big 4 rivals (Federer, Djokovic, and Murray), received a trophy, and saw his handprint engraved on the Philippe-Chatrier court.

However, the day was not over for the former world No. 1, who appeared before journalists to share his feelings about the ceremony:

"I had no idea what was going to happen, how it was going to unfold. I only knew there would be surprises. When I saw the plaque, I thought it was just for this year, not forever.

It's a great honor. I'm very moved to know that I will always be present on the most important court of my career."

Regarding the presence of his former circuit colleagues, Nadal had this to say: "I had guessed they would come. (laughs) Novak plays here, so it’s not hard for him. But for Roger and Andy to come just for this means a lot.

They all represent a big part of my career. The fact that my three biggest rivals showed up is a message for the sport. It proves that beyond rivalries, you can get along with them."

Finally, the Majorcan was also questioned about the possibility of seeing him again in exhibitions:

"I haven't touched a racket since my retirement. It's been eight months since I've set foot on a court. At some point, I will come back to play an exhibition or something like that.

I've had opportunities, but I needed time to disconnect from it all. Even when you play an exhibition, you have to prepare to show a good level of tennis for the fans.