Carlos Alcaraz described Rafael Nadal’s farewell ceremony at Roland Garros as an unforgettable moment, highlighting the significance of seeing the Big Four—Nadal, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray—together on Court Philippe-Chatrier. The young Spanish star, who has long idolized Nadal, expressed deep admiration for the tribute, calling it an emotional and historic occasion.
Alcaraz shared his thoughts on witnessing Nadal’s final match at the French Open, emphasizing how special it was to be present for the farewell of a player who has shaped his own passion for tennis. He praised the organizers for the way they honored Nadal, noting that everything about the ceremony was executed beautifully.
This is what he said: “Rafa has been my idol since the beginning of my career… for my interest in tennis. For me to be able to watch his last match here in Roland Garros and be able to be here for that farewell… so yesterday was a really special day I think for everyone. A special moment for me. Yesterday, seeing him saying goodbye in the way he did it was unbelievable.
I love the way Roland Garros did the farewell for him. Everything was incredible. It ended up being the Big Four all together on Philippe-Chatrier. It was unbelievable.
For me, it was a great experience sharing the last match for him on Philippe-Chatrier… and yesterday. It was great being with him in some way in the last steps at Roland Garros.”
The reunion of the Big Four added to the emotional weight of the event, as Federer, Djokovic, and Murray joined Nadal on court to celebrate his legacy. Alcaraz acknowledged the rarity of such a gathering, recognizing the impact these legends have had on the sport.
As Nadal bid farewell to the tournament where he won a record 14 titles, Alcaraz reflected on the privilege of witnessing the moment firsthand. He expressed gratitude for being part of the occasion, stating that it was an experience he would cherish forever. With Nadal’s departure marking the end of an era, Alcaraz and the next generation of players continue to draw inspiration from his achievements, carrying forward the legacy of one of tennis’s greatest champions.
Alcaraz at the French Open, ranking, and results in 2025
At the moment ranked no.2, Carlos owns an overall 31-5 match record in 2025. The Spaniard is now having a run at the French Open where he toppled the world no.310 Giulio Zeppieri 6-3 6-4 6-2.
Carlos Alcaraz will play the world no.56 Fabian Marozsan in the 2nd round. Their record is 1-1.
The Spaniard clinched 3 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo and Rome. Carlos was the finalist in Barcelona (Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell).
Alcaraz won 20 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 10 on clay courts, 2 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)