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Rafael Nadal's Nine-Word Message to Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated May 26, 2025 10:00 AM ET

Tennis icon Rafael Nadal made sure to show his appreciation for his longtime rivals following their gesture during his retirement tribute at the 2025 French Open.

Nadal, who retired from the sport in November 2024, was honored at the Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday. French Open tournament director Amelie Mauresmo and French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton led the tribute for the Spanish legend, unveiling a silver plaque that featured his footprint, which was placed close to the net post, per ATP Tour.

The so-called "King of Clay" dominated the Grand Slam tournament for most of his two-decade-long career, winning 14 French Open titles and boasting a 112-4 record in matches played in the competition. With that said, it was only fitting for him to get recognized on his old stomping ground.

The highlight of the day, however, was the appearance of his old foes in Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray. Nadal and the three were popularly called the Big Four of tennis during their heydays, as they dominated the major tournaments and formed an intense rivalry over the years.

Federer, Djokovic and Murray reunited in a rare occurrence to take part in honoring Nadal on his return to Roland-Garros.

Following the incredible moment, Nadal took to Instagram to share photos of himself with the other members of the Big Four. He went on to thank Federer, Djokovic and Murray for coming to the ceremony.

"Thank you guys," Nadal wrote, along with a smiling face emoji. "From the bottom of my heart!"

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A post shared by Rafa Nadal (@rafaelnadal)

For what it's worth, Nadal also delivered a beautiful message for Federer, Djokovic and Murray during his speech at the event. He noted that it "meant a lot" for his "three biggest rivals" to be on the court with him, noting that it sends a "great message" that even your biggest adversaries can be "good colleagues."

“You don't need to hate the opponent to try to beat him with all your forces," Nadal added, via ATP Tour.

"And that's the message that I think we showed people, we showed the new generations, and in some way that's our legacy. The results are there, but at the same time the results are just results."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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