Watch: Rafael Nadal’s footprint immortalized at Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal’s footprint will now be a permanent part of Court Philippe Chatrier, in a moving tribute honouring the Spanish legend at Roland Garros. The 14-time French Open champion said goodbye to the tournament in an epic ceremony, with his greatest rivals Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray all in attendance.

The former World No. 1 received the farewell he deserved: a packed stadium, heartfelt ovations, and a gathering of tennis royalty. Nadal couldn’t hold back his emotions for long—just moments after walking onto the court, he was already tearing up.

As part of the ceremony, the tournament organisers—led by former World No. 1 Amélie Mauresmo—presented a symbolic tribute to Rafa: the immortalisation of his footprint on centre court at Philippe Chatrier, the stadium where he lifted the trophy 14 times.

During the tribute, Mauresmo guided Nadal to one side of the net, where his footprints had been stamped into the clay beside the court—forever sealing his legacy at Roland Garros. The 22-time Grand Slam champion couldn’t hold back his tears and was warmly congratulated by his Big-4 peers. Watch the special moment Nadal lived during his farewell in Paris.