When Rafael Nadal stepped onto Court Philippe-Chatrier, he was greeted with an overwhelming ovation from 15,000 fans, all eager to witness what was likely his final appearance at Roland Garros.
The seats behind the players’ boxes were filled with current stars, including Carlos Alcaraz, long-time rival Novak Djokovic, and women’s number one and three-time champion Iga Swiatek.
Among the spectators were Rafa’s wife, Maria Francisca Perello, their baby son Rafael Jr., his mother Ana Maria Parera, father Sebastian, uncles Toni and Miguel Angel, as well as other members of his team.
Have a great family life you more than deserve it shall miss you and your great tallant xxx for baby Rafa.
I was very sad to see you lose the draw was awful but it is what it is all the very best for what ever is next vamos rafa.
Magnificent collection of the family, so close & united .
Feel the Love Rafa!
Seeing Nole, Carlitos and Iga all there was amazing. I can’t remember a scene like that before. And baby Rafa is so cute!
“Let me photograph you in this light
In case it is the last time
That we might be exactly as we were”…
Sweet memories, Rafa. Add a page to Baby Rafa’s album-he is such a delight❤️
Baby Rafa is so adorable!
Now I’ve had a few hours to reflect, my abiding memory won’t be the loss – that is insignificant in the big scheme of thing. My lasting memory will always be of Rafa’s enormous achievements with a tennis racquet, the humility, passion and detrmination with which he has played the sport.
Rafa was right not to want a big goodbye fanfare because he’s left the door ajar for a possible return next year. In any event we will see him in Paris again for the Olympics.
Rafa will leave a great legacy. In particular, his 14 French Open slams, his statue at the gates of RG, the love of all his fans, the respect abd admiration he has earned worldwide will live on forever.
Couldn’t agree more! So very well said!
If it’s goodbye I will miss you Rafa! You are a true legend of the sport!
Love to you & your beautiful family! 😍
“The feelings that I have had today are difficult to describe in words but it is so special to feel the love that I have received in the place that I have loved.”
~Rafa Nadal, 27th May 2024
And speaking for all the fans the whole world over (if I may), we all return that love to you, dear Rafa to the power of infinity…..
Well said! Rafa what can I say you have always been the total package as an athlete and a person.
Emotional and beautiful moments…what a loving family!🥰
So lovely❤️