Rafael Nadal, the 14-time French Open champion, was visibly moved by a heartfelt tribute from Holger Rune ahead of the 2025 French Open, as reported by Motorcycle Sports on May 21, 2025. Rune, the world No. 10, paid homage to his childhood idol by wearing a Nike shirt during a Roland Garros practice session, emblazoned with the phrase “It only takes everything,” a nod to Nadal’s relentless career ethos coined by Nike after his 2024 Davis Cup Finals retirement. Rune shared images on Instagram, captioning them, “A tribute to our legend @rafaelnadal 🦾 @rolandgarros #kingofclay #itonlytakeseverything #rolandgarros,” stirring emotions among fans and players alike. Nadal responded with a simple smiling emoji in the comments, a understated yet powerful acknowledgment of the Dane’s gesture, reflecting his appreciation.
The tribute set the stage for an emotional farewell at Roland Garros, where Nadal, now retired, will be honored with a special ceremony on Court Philippe-Chatrier on May 25, 2025, as confirmed by tournament director Amélie Mauresmo. Nadal had declined a similar tribute in 2024, uncertain about retirement, but expressed mixed feelings about the upcoming event, telling L’Equipe, “It makes me uncomfortable because I’m not very good at this kind of thing.” Rune’s gesture, coupled with their past practice sessions—described as intense by Rune after a 2024 Roland Garros hit—underscored Nadal’s profound influence. Posts on X, like one from @SK__Tennis, praised the “heartfelt homage to the undisputed King of Clay,” amplifying the sentiment. Nadal’s emotional response and the anticipated ceremony highlight his enduring legacy as the French Open prepares to celebrate its greatest champion.
