'Big Four' reunite at Nadal's French Open farewell

Rafa, Roger, Novak, and Andy

These names are familiar to tennis fans. They are like John, Paul, George, and Ringo for Beatles fans.

This group is known as the Big Four of modern tennis. They dominated the ATP Tour after the year 2000. Recently, they have not been seen together much. Rafael Nadal retired at the end of last year.

On Sunday, they reunited at the French Open. It was an emotional farewell for Nadal, a 14-time champion.

"After all these years fighting for everything," Nadal said, "it's unbelievable how time changes things." He spoke to his rivals-turned-friends on Court Philippe Chatrier.

He continued, "All the nerves and pressure feel different now that I’m retired."

"We built amazing rivalries but respected one another," he added. "It means a lot that you're all here."

Nadal held his son Rafael Junior while leaving Court Philippe Chatrier.

Federer was first to embrace him warmly. Hugs followed from Djokovic and Murray.

Djokovic arrived in Paris just hours earlier after winning his 100th title. Murray joked he thought he would attend as Djokovic's coach.

Their coaching partnership ended earlier this month. Tournament director Amelie Mauresmo asked if Murray could still come.

"I didn't know they would be here," Nadal said. "But I imagined they would come."

Murray traveled from London to Paris out of respect for Nadal. He praised Nadal's achievements at Roland Garros.

"People say records won't be broken," he said. "But I think this one will stand the test of time."

Murray called Nadal an amazing player and a great guy.

Nadal shared a funny story about his friendship with Murray. After Arsenal beat Real Madrid in football, Murray messaged him to check in.

"It took me five seconds to realize what I was reading," Nadal recalled with a smile.

How Roland Garros Paid Tribute to 'King of Clay'

Nadal played most of his 115 French Open matches on Court Philippe Chatrier. He won all 14 titles there too.

Six months after retiring at the Davis Cup Finals in Spain, he returned for a special farewell ceremony.

The crowd wore T-shirts matching Roland Garros terracotta colors as they entered the stadium.

Before Nadal appeared, fans chanted "Rafa! Rafa! Rafa!" The majority stood when he walked out in a suit.

A long round of applause followed as Nadal absorbed their love and support.

After watching highlights from his career at Roland Garros, he thanked his family sitting in front row seats.

His family has supported him throughout his career: father Sebastian, mother Ana Maria, wife Mery, son Rafael Junior, and sister Isabel were present.

Towards the end of his speech in Spanish, French, and English, tears filled Nadal's eyes as he thanked his uncle Toni—his first coach who guided him to many titles.

Following appearances by Federer, Djokovic, and Murray came another surprise: Mauresmo unveiled a silver plaque featuring Nadal's footprint next to the net post on Chatrier court.

"It was perfect," said Nadal about the day’s emotions. "I enjoyed it a lot despite being shy."

Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek were among the 15,000 spectators watching this memorable ceremony.

"Merci Rafa" was printed on commemorative T-shirts given to attendees.