Maria Sharapova recently shared a heartfelt message for Rafael Nadal after witnessing his emotional farewell ceremony at the **2025 French Open**. The tribute took place on the opening day of the tournament, **May 25**.
Nadal created an unparalleled legacy at **Roland Garros**, winning the title a record **14 times**—a feat no other player has achieved. After playing his final Grand Slam match here in 2024, the tournament honored him this year for nearly **two decades of dominance** on the Parisian clay.
Tennis icons **Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray** attended the ceremony, reuniting the legendary **‘Big Four’**. Stars like **Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Świątek, and Simona Halep** also paid tribute, wearing **‘Merci Rafa’** T-shirts alongside thousands of fans at **Court Philippe-Chatrier**.
Though Sharapova wasn’t present physically, she watched the ceremony and later expressed her emotions via an **Instagram story**, writing:
> *“This was so moving. And so perfect. And so so deserved. All of it.”*
Sharapova and Nadal have shared a strong bond since their early careers in the **2000s**, frequently appearing together at promotional events.
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### **Rafael Nadal: “I Don’t Miss Much Tennis”**
Nadal announced his retirement in **October 2024**, playing his final match at the **Davis Cup Finals** in November. Since then, he has focused on **family, business ventures**, and life off the court—but made time for this special tribute.
During a post-ceremony press conference, Nadal revealed he feels **at peace** with retirement:
> *“I am having fun. I don’t miss much tennis because I feel I’ve given all I had. My body doesn’t allow me to play anymore, so I’m at peace.”*
His legacy is now immortalized at **Roland Garros**, with his **footprint etched into the clay** as a permanent tribute.
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