The Big Four will come together at the French Open for Rafael Nadal’s farewell event in Paris, as Novak Djokovic has confirmed his attendance alongside Roger Federer and Andy Murray.
Nadal retired from tennis following the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga in November 2024, and the Spanish people honored their hero after the nation’s departure from the competition.
Djokovic, Federer, and Murray were originally anticipated to participate in the ceremony, but they were not scheduled to arrive until later in the week since many thought Spain would advance to the semi-final and/or final.
Nevertheless, the host country was defeated by the Netherlands in the quarter-finals, and the grand celebration was somewhat subdued, much to the disappointment of Nadal’s ex-coach Carlos Moya, Spain’s Davis Cup leader David Ferrer, and numerous others in the tennis world.
However, another goodbye will occur in Paris on Sunday as Roland Garros bids farewell to its beloved champion after his remarkable 14 Grand Slam victories on the clay courts.
French Open Tournament Director Amélie Mauresmo declared: “We aim for it to be something unique, extraordinary, but I prefer not to reveal too much to maintain the surprise for everyone.”
In spite of Nadal’s wishes against hosting a large celebration, numerous major celebrities, including 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic, will be present at the French Open for the ceremony.
“It will be an incredibly special, deeply emotional moment for all,” the tennis legend expressed to Lematin.ch. “Together with Federer and Murray, we’ll attend the ceremony.” “It will be a wonderful moment.”
Nadal’s successor, Carlos Alcaraz, has stated he will participate, with his first match of the 2025 French Open scheduled for Monday, while Iga Swiatek is anticipated to be on Court Philippe Chatrier for the “surprise.”
The ceremony will begin only after the day’s matches are finished, with activities expected to commence no earlier than 18:00 local time.
Djokovic claimed his 100th ATP Tour singles title at the Geneva Open on Saturday amid a challenging 2025 thus far.
He has appeared in just two finals – finishing as runner-up at the 2025 Miami Open – since claiming his 99th title at the 2024 Paris Olympics last August, and he acknowledged that Nadal’s retirement greatly affected him.
When inquired whether it was challenging to remain motivated now that his esteemed rival Nadal is no longer competing, he responded to Lematin: “Yes, staying motivated without him was difficult.” I truly didn’t expect it to turn out this way.
“A piece of me left with him, and reclaiming my motivation has been difficult.” Fortunately, there are various other sources of inspiration for me.
