"We couldn't have imagined we'd be here 20 years later" - Rafael Nadal sends emotional message to wife Maria at French Open tribute

Rafael Nadal grew emotional during his farewell ceremony at the 2025 French Open as he spoke about his wife, Maria Francisca Perello. He shared heartfelt words about the important role she has played in his career and life, and thanked her for her support.

Nadal ruled Roland Garros for nearly two decades, capturing an astonishing 14 titles, an unmatched feat in tennis. His last Grand Slam appearance came here in 2024, where he was defeated by Alexander Zverev. He then waited a year to say a proper goodbye to the tournament.

Many of the Spaniard's closest family members were there for the special moment, including his wife Maria, son Rafa Jr., sister Maribel, mother Ana, father Sebastián, and his uncle and former coach Toni. With a chuckle, he delivered a heartfelt speech to his wife, saying (translated from Spanish):

"I've lost a piece of paper I had prepared, but it's easy to fix. Mary, you're my best life partner. We couldn't have imagined in 2005 that we'd be here 20 years later as a family. I hope to make you as happy as you've made me."

While Nadal delivered his speech, Maria stood among the audience, holding their baby son in her arms. She shared the emotional moment with her husband, to whom she has been married for nearly six years.

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Rafael Nadal pays tribute to his family during French Open ceremony

Rafael Nadal pictured at the 2025 French Open | Image Source: Getty

Rafael Nadal was deeply emotional during his 2025 French Open tribute speech. He began by addressing his family, starting with his uncles, godmother, and godfather, and then fondly remembering his grandmothers and grandfathers, revealing how much he missed them.

"To my family. Uncles, godmother, and godfather, who have taken care of me since I was little. You know how important you are in my life. I can never thank you enough. To my grandmothers, who are here at 92 and 94. To my grandparents, whom I miss so much," he said.

Nadal then shifted his focus to his uncle Toni, his childhood coach and the man who laid the foundation for his legendary career. It was with Toni by his side that he captured 16 out of his total 22 Grand Slams.

"Toni, you're the reason I'm here," he said. "Training, talking, training, pushing myself to the limit. It hasn't always been easy, but it's been worth it. We're not big on expressing our feelings, but my gratitude for you is endless."

The Spaniard continued:

"Dad, Mom, Maribel [his sister], thank you for treating me like a son and brother and not just a successful tennis player, and for the values you instilled. I can never repay you for everything you've done for me. I love you. And thank you to France and Paris. Here I have felt appreciated and felt emotions I could never have imagined."

Along with his loved ones, Nadal had three of his greatest rivals by his side: Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray. The 'Big Four' reunited on Court Philippe-Chatrier in a moment that felt like the closing chapter of a historic era in tennis.