"I will never forget...": Rafael Nadal's moving message sparks an outpouring of love on social media

Rafael Nadal—yeah, that absolute beast on clay courts—recently dropped a message that hit everyone right in the feels. The guy who’s basically owned Roland Garros with 14 French Open titles took to social media to say, “Merci, @rolandgarros! I will never forget this amazing day!” And honestly, it’s not just about that day—it’s about everything he’s done, the epic journey, and the huge mark he’s left on tennis forever.


On May 25, 2025, Nadal got a legendary farewell at Roland Garros. It was packed with all the love and respect he deserves, with tennis legends like Roger Federer , Novak Djokovic , and Andy Murray there to celebrate him. They showed a highlight reel of his insane career, the crowd was on their feet applauding, and they even put his footprints right there on Court Philippe-Chatrier. Talk about iconic.


In his speech, Nadal got real emotional, looking back on all the ups and downs—those insane wins and tough losses. He made it clear that while he won’t be playing there again, the memories and feelings tied to that place will stay with him forever.

Merci, @rolandgarros! I will never forget this amazing day! 🥹 pic.twitter.com/cHerLKY7rP

— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) May 25, 2025

The whole tennis world came together to show love for Rafa
Federer, who’s been both a fierce rival and close friend, said something pretty touching: “What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour.” And Novak Djokovic? He also shared some warm words, appreciating the battles they fought and the respect they’ve built over the years.

Social media poured love for their favorite sportsperson
Fans online? They were all heart-eyes and tears seeing Nadal’s emotional post. One wrote, “You changed clay court tennis forever. Facing you on clay was the hardest thing any player could ever face. We’re gonna miss watching you make every opponent chase that one extra shot!” Another said, “You and Roger took tennis to levels we never imagined. My son plays because of you, trying to copy your fierce fire and your sprint to the baseline before matches. He’s playing his last high school match next week and it’s all thanks to you for being an amazing role model.”

You revolutionised the game of clay court Tennis, undoubtedly the clay GOAT. Facing you on a clay court is one of the most difficult things any Tennis player would ever face in their careers.

Will miss watching you play and always making the opponent play that one extra shot! 🙏

— Pavvy G (@pavyg) May 25, 2025

Well deserved Rafa. You and Roger grew the game of tennis to unimaginable heights. My son plays tennis because of you. He tries to channel your fierce competitiveness into his game. He emulates your sprint to the baseline before every match. He is graduating HS and will be…

— Thuan Le (@thuanle313) May 26, 2025

More messages poured in like, “Congrats on a legendary career. Today showed how much we all love you. You’ll always be missed on the court,” and “Your name will forever be etched at Roland Garros. Well deserved, Rafa!”

Congrats on a legendary career and today showed how much you are loved by millions of us, you will forever be missed on court. 🧡

— 𝐏𝐚𝐯𝐥𝐨 𝐄𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐫 (@Pavlo__Escobar) May 25, 2025

But Nadal’s impact isn’t just about trophies. It’s the way he’s carried himself—his passion, humility, and sportsmanship—that’s inspired so many people, both in tennis and beyond. Even as he steps away from the pro tour, his legacy is far from over. He’s left the door wide open for future players to chase their dreams with that same fierce heart.

So yeah, Rafa’s goodbye wasn’t just a farewell—it was a powerful reminder of why we fell in love with the game in the first place. And honestly? We’ll never forget him.