"Roland Garros is unique": Rafael Nadal receives epic tribute with Federer, Djokovic and Murray in attendance

Rafael Nadal received a grand tribute at Roland Garros, in front of a packed Philippe Chatrier and with the presence of his great rivals Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray at the ceremony. The 14-time French Open champion received a grand tribute, as the greatest champion of the tournament – and of any other tournament.

The Spaniard finished his French Open career with a record of 114-4, a unique dominance, with 14 of his 22 Grand Slam titles won at Philippe Chatrier. From the first in 2005 to the last back in 2022.

Nadal's Roland Garros story, however, began a year earlier, when an injury prevented him from competing in the tournament. "It's been an incredible story that began back in 2004 when I came to Roland Garros for the very first time. I could barely walk during my foot injury," he said. "But that year I climbed to the top of the court on crutches and looking at it from up there. I dreamed of coming back the following year to compete."

"In 2005, I was finally able to compete here for the first time. I was 18 years old. And my first major experience was the match I played against my childhood friend and rival Richard Gasquet. From that day on, I fully understood what Roland Garros meant."

"I've experienced everything over these twenty years. I've had incredible rivals, like Andy, Roger, and Novak. And of course, many others who pushed me to my physical and mental limits. Truly, nothing could've been as thrilling as these long-lasting rivalries that have driven all of us to improve every single day."

"Roland Garros is unique, not only because it's a fundamental part of tennis history, but also because of all the people who work tirelessly always with a smile to make this tournament what it is: unique. I can't name everyone, but I do want to give a special thanks to former French Federation Tennis presidents."

"And to people you may not know... but who have supported me in every way behind the scenes. All of them have shown me such kindness and affection that I simply don't have the words to thank you enough for everything you've done for me."