Iga Swiatek Reacts with Tears to Rafael Nadal’s Emotional Farewell at French Open
Rafael Nadal was honoured with a special farewell ceremony on Court Philippe-Chatrier as the French Open paid tribute to his incredible success in Paris.
The Spanish tennis legend, who has won a record 14 French Open titles, received a standing ovation from fans as he walked around the court for one final time. Nadal retired at the end of last year but didn’t get a proper goodbye at Roland Garros until now.
Among the many stars watching on Day One of the 2025 French Open were Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Andy Murray, and reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz. Sitting just behind Alcaraz was four-time French Open winner Iga Swiatek – one of Nadal’s biggest fans.
Swiatek, who often trains at Nadal’s academy and has openly spoken about her admiration for him, was visibly emotional during the ceremony. Later, she shared her feelings on social media with touching photos, including a selfie with Alcaraz and a picture showing her hands full of tissues.
“Your legacy will last forever @rafaelnadal ❤️ #yesicried,” Swiatek wrote in her Instagram post.
She was not the only one moved by the moment. Six-time Grand Slam winner Boris Becker also posted on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “We all are crying…”
Nadal himself thanked the French Open for the tribute, saying on social media: “Merci, @rolandgarros! I will never forget this amazing day!”
With 14 titles and only four losses in 116 matches at Roland Garros, Nadal’s legacy in Paris remains unmatched. For Swiatek and many others, his farewell was more than just a ceremony – it was the end of an era.
