CNN
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Few athletes have become synonymous with a single event than Rafael Nadal or the French Open.
The Spaniard won a record 14 title at the Clay Court Grand Slam during his illustrious career, and Roland Garros said his final special farewell to the legendary champion on Sunday.
The 38-year-old, who retired from tennis last year, was awarded at an emotional ceremony at the beginning of this year’s event, and Nadal couldn’t hide his feelings.
Thousands of fans greeted Nadal with a standing ovation when he appeared at Court Philippe-Chatrier, wearing a custom red top with the message “Merci Rafa.”
Nadal’s highlights montage of the tournament began playing on the big screen, bringing tears to the 22-time Grand Slam champions.
“This is difficult,” Nadal said in French.
“After playing in this court for the past 20 years, I don’t know where to start.
After making his debut as an 18 year old, Nadal continued to speak in both English and Spanish as he recalls his experiences at the event for the past 20 years.
He finished with an incredible 112-4 record in the Grand Slam, and somewhere he described as “the most important tennis court of my career,” he won all 14 of the finals he played for Court Philippe Chatelier.
Nadal’s voice began to break as he thanked his team, especially his uncle Tony, who served as his main coach, for his support over the years.
With high emotion running, Nadal joined three biggest rivals of his career: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray.
All four of them hugged the middle of the court before Nadal thanked his three friends for all their support.
“We have shown the world that we can fight as hard as possible, but we can be coworkers and respect each other very well, and for me it means you’re here,” Nadal said.
“To be honest, you gave me some hardships in court, but I really enjoyed pushing myself to the limits every day to compete with you all.”
The nearly 50-minute ceremony ended with Nadal presenting a plaque in his footsteps.
He was then joined by his two-year-old son, who waved one last time to his adorable fans.
“I can’t play in front of you anymore, but my mind and my memories are always linked to this magical place,” he said.
This year’s French opening began in the first round on Sunday, but there was still no major upset.
Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz, who many consider to be the heir to Nadal’s throne, is active against Italy’s Giulio Zeppieri on Monday. Alkaraz, 22, was in the crowd on Sunday to say goodbye to his hero.