Roger Federer Opens Up on the Famous Plaque Anchored in Philippe-Chatrier in Honor of Rafael Nadal

Roger Federer was among the thousands of people who were part of the Rafael Nadal ceremony at Roland Garros.

Roger Federer Opens Up on the Famous Plaque Anchored in Philippe-Chatrier in Honor of Rafael Nadal

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal (via ATP Tour)

Roger Federer recalled the emotional tribute given to his great rival, Rafael Nadal, at Roland Garros. The ceremony was held on the opening day of this year’s Roland Garros.

The main highlight of the event was the famous plaque created as a tribute to Nadal. It would remain at the Philippe Chatrier court forever. Federer claimed that this symbol could become motivational for every player that steps onto the court. He said on Eurosport:

For me, it was the most emotional moment. This plaque will remain there forever. Every player who steps on the pitch will see it, and I’m sure it will inspire and motivate them. Honestly, he got the farewell and tribute he deserved. I’m happy for him, grateful for allowing me to experience this with them; I hadn’t seen them for months.

Nadal’s ceremony was emotional, which was to be expected. Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray accompanied Federer at the ceremony. The trio embraced Nadal at the ceremony before getting words of approval from the Spaniard.

Apart from them, there were many other notable figures in the ceremony. Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek were seen in the stands celebrating the 39-year-old’s legacy.

Carlos Alcaraz draws level with Rafael Nadal

Carlos Alcaraz continued to impress on grass by winning his second consecutive Queen’s Club title, marking his fourth career title on the surface. At just 22 years old, he has lost only three of his 32 matches on grass, extending his current winning streak on the surface to 12 matches. Despite Spain’s reputation as a clay-dominant nation, Alcaraz is quickly becoming its standout performer on grass.

Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz
Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz (Image via X/The Tennis Letter)

Only a few Spanish men have found consistent success on grass in the Open Era. David Ferrer won two titles at the Rosmalen Championships and made the Wimbledon quarterfinals twice. Feliciano Lopez, known for his grass-court skills, won four titles and reached six finals on the surface, including two triumphs at Queen’s Club. Rafael Nadal, often linked to clay, also had a strong grass record, with four titles, two Wimbledon wins, and a notable win percentage of 78.4%.

Alcaraz now matches both Lopez and Nadal with four grass-court titles. His most notable achievements include back-to-back Queen’s Club titles and becoming a two-time Wimbledon champion. These accomplishments have already put him in elite company among Spanish players. With his current form, he could soon surpass all his predecessors in grass-court achievements.

Heading into Wimbledon this summer, Alcaraz boasts a remarkable 90.6% win rate on grass. He is not just leading the new generation on the surface, but is also emerging as the player to beat. If his trajectory continues, he could become the most successful Spanish grass-court player in history.

Andy Murray set to join Rafael Nadal in Grand Slam tribute

Andy Murray, often considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time, continues to influence the sport through his expertise and dedication. In recognition of his legacy, Wimbledon will pay tribute to him in 2027.

This honor places him alongside legends like Rafael Nadal and highlights his lasting impact on British tennis. Notably, neither Roger Federer nor Novak Djokovic have yet received such recognition at Wimbledon.

Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray (2)
Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray (Image via X/Channels Television)

Murray’s career stands out for his resilience and achievements during an era dominated by three of the sport’s most iconic players. He made history by becoming the first British man since Fred Perry in 1936 to win Wimbledon, achieving the feat twice. His success on home soil helped elevate British tennis on the global stage and inspired a new generation of players.

Wimbledon’s tribute will align with the tournament’s 150th anniversary. A statue will be unveiled to commemorate Murray’s role in ending the 77-year wait for a British champion. This rare honor celebrates not just his titles but the significance of his victories in tennis history and British sports culture.

While Rafael Nadal has already been honored with a statue at Roland Garros for his 14 French Open titles, Federer and Djokovic have yet to receive similar tributes. Federer has been recognized through art exhibitions, and Djokovic may eventually be honored at Rod Laver Arena, according to hints from Australian Open Director Craig Tiley.

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