Federer on Nadal's tribute: "I almost broke into tears"
The Swiss considers the tribute as "perfect" in the farewell of Rafa Nadal at his favorite tournament, Roland Garros.
What happened on the afternoon of May 25, 2025, will be remembered for a long time by a vast majority of fans. The farewell of Rafa Nadal at Roland Garros lived up to what the Mallorcan legend is, a 14-time winner in Paris. An absolutely measured and practically perfect tribute in each of its phases. Almost as if it had been scripted for Hollywood.
Special mention to the part where Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray make their appearance. The other three pillars of the Big 4 burst onto Philippe Chatrier's court while their video message was being cut off. An absolutely magical moment. Worthy of a movie. The organization of Roland Garros was on point here.
The three were able to support Rafa in his farewell. This way, Nadal could bid farewell surrounded by his greatest rivals, the ones who pushed him to become the tennis player he has been. It was the moment where the Spaniard could feel more relaxed and even crack a smile after moments of great emotion and tears.
Federer accompanied his friend
Just as Rafa extended his hand on the day Roger said goodbye to tennis, the Swiss could not miss the day when Nadal received tribute on his favorite court. The timing, moreover, could not have been more perfect. It had been exactly 20 years since the day Rafa made his debut on this court. Twenty years later, he bid farewell amidst cheers and with a plaque next to the net symbolizing the legacy he leaves behind. Truly commendable.
“It was perfect. Honestly, giving Rafa that plaque was great. It didn't surprise me because I already knew in advance, but I was happy for him to see him so moved. When we walked onto the court, it was the most emotional moment for me. The walk felt endless, with the whole stadium watching. It was an incredible moment for Novak, Andy, and me. I almost burst into tears, especially when I greeted Rafa, because I felt he was very moved by the ceremony,” Federer commented, as reported by L’Equipe.
Farewell to the legend, surrounded by his greatest adversaries, now friends. A nearly perfect ending and a farewell ceremony that sets the bar incredibly high. This Sunday, May 25, Roland Garros received the admiration of the tennis community for such a magical farewell to its greatest champion. The statue at the entrance seemed small compared to this beautiful tribute.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Federer, sobre el homenaje a Nadal: "Casi rompo a llorar"