Rafael Nadal ended his glorious career a year ago. This May, the 22-time Major winner received an incredible honor at his beloved Roland Garros, where he reigned between 2005 and 2022.
The packed Court Philippe-Chatrier witnessed one of the most emotional tennis farewells ever, with the organizers honoring Nadal's name and unmatched achievements on the red clay.
The spectators, including Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek, erupted in joy when Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray entered Court Philippe-Chatrier to join their great rival and friend.
Murray shared what it meant to stand beside Nadal, Federer and Djokovic during one of the most emotional moments tennis has ever witnessed. For the Briton, the moment carried a special weight.
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While fully aware of the staggering accomplishments of the icons standing next to him, he also recognized the shared history that bound them together and earned his place at the ceremony.
During the prime of his career, Andy stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the Big 3 on the most notable stages. He stole three Majortitles, many Masters 1000 crowns and two Olympic gold medalsfrom them.
He was also their toughest opponent for many years. Thus, he helped them shape an era defined by intensity, respect and excellence. Murray never pretended to match their trophy counts.
However, he was undeniably part of the group that dominated the sport's biggest stages for over a decade. In fact, his incredible run in 2016 speaks volumes about his achievements.
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Still, many questioned his roleat the ceremony. Honest as ever, Andy made it clear he did not show up in Paris of self-importance or nostalgia. Rafa personally asked him to be there.
It was a gesture that spoke to their friendship and the deep appreciation the Spaniard feels toward the rivals who pushed him through the sport's toughest chapters and made him the ultimate warrior.
Murray did not stand on Court Philippe-Chatrier beside Federer and Djokovic as an outsider, but as one of four figures in the era that defined modern tennis. He deserved that moment after endless battles with the most accomplished players of all time.
"I'm fully aware of where I sit on Court Philippe-Chatrier in the pecking order. I know that what all those guys have gone on to achieve on the tennis court is far superior to anything I did.
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But there was a period in the middle part of my career where most major events - Majors, Masters 1000, Olympics, Davis Cup - most of those were won by one of us. We did not win everything, but we certainly took most of those big titles.
I'm proud to have been part of that period. I did not ask to go to Rafa's ceremony. I went to Paris because he asked me to. I'm aware some people were wondering what I was doing there, but I certainly did not invite myself.
It would have been fine had he not wanted me to be there. If Novak decides not to call me to his farewell ceremony, I would accept that as well," Andy Murray said.
