Roger Federer joined Rafael Nadal on court for his emotional farewell ceremony at the French Open.
Federer, Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic all joined Nadal for his farewell ceremony, as they celebrated their former rival’s decorated career.
They were not the only stars inside Court Philippe-Chatrier, with Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek watching Nadal from the stands.
Nadal’s farewell in Malaga received criticism last year, and now Federer has given his verdict on the ceremony in Paris.
Roger Federer issues honest verdict on Rafael Nadal’s farewell ceremony at the French Open
Federer has competed alongside Nadal throughout his career, with the Spaniard a major part of his own farewell at the 2022 Laver Cup.
When giving his verdict on the ceremony, Federer told L’Equipe that he thought it was perfect.
The Swiss also admitted that he almost shed a tear when he met Nadal on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
“It was perfect! Honestly, giving Rafa that plaque to keep forever—that was amazing,” said Federer. “Unlike him, it didn’t surprise me because I knew it was coming. But I was happy for him, seeing how emotional he was.
“For me, the most moving moment was when I walked toward him as we came onto the court. It felt like it lasted forever, with the whole stadium watching us—it was a powerful moment for Novak, Andy, and me.
“Did I shed a tear? Almost! Especially when I greeted Rafa, because I could feel how deeply touched he was by the ceremony…”
Andy Murray reveals what he thought about Rafael Nadal’s farewell ceremony
Federer was not the only one of the ‘big four’ to praise Nadal’s French Open ceremony, with Murray also appearing impressed by what they did for the former world number one.
The Brit was supposed to be in Paris anyway as a coach, and although Murray and Djokovic have since parted ways he still decided to make the trip.
“Giving that speech in several languages was really good,” Murray said praising Nadal. “At one point, the papers for his speech flew away (laughs), but other than that, I thought he spoke perfectly well. You could see how important that moment was to him and the happiness it brought him.
“I was supposed to come because of my job with Novak, and Amélie asked me last week if I could still come. It was natural, we’ve always gotten along well since we were kids.
“Obviously, what he’s achieved is incredible, and especially here. I would be really, really surprised if that record were beaten one day. I think it will stand the test of time. A huge player, a great guy, it’s great that he got such a send-off.”
Nadal ended his career with a historic 14 French Open titles, more than anyone else in the history of the sport.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
