After 23 years as a pro, Rafael Nadal’s journey ended on the very soil where he achieved his greatest triumphs. With 22 Grand Slam singles titles—14 of them at Roland Garros—his legacy is unmatched. Last year, his retirement from the Davis Cup felt incomplete. Fans hoped he’d lead Spain to another title, but an early exit brought an unexpected farewell. Yet Roland Garros refused to let their greatest champion leave quietly. They honored him in a heartfelt ceremony on Court Philippe-Chatrier, the stage where he built his legend. However, there was one issue for international fans and Rennae Stubbs watching.

The ceremony was beautiful. Fans wore orange t-shirts with “Merci Rafa” on the left side. When Rafa entered the stadium, cheers erupted from all sides. He was celebrated for his incredible legacy. Even his former rivals—Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray—made an appearance, bringing back the ‘Big 4’ after years. But when Rafa delivered his speech in Spanish, English, and French, online viewers were disappointed. There were no subtitles.

Rennae Stubbs took to her X, offering a quick fix: “Thank god for google translate!” But given the scale of this event, shouldn’t subtitles have been prepared beforehand? Tennis is an international sport. Fans and players come from all over the world and often speak English as a second or third language!

But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. He began his speech in French: “It’s difficult. I don’t know where to begin because after playing on this court for the last 20 years, after enjoying, suffering, winning, losing, especially after being moved every time I had the chance to be here.” The emotions ran high as he reflected on two decades of unforgettable moments.

Switching to English, Nadal shared, “It’s been an incredible story. In 2005, I finally got to play here for the first time. I was 18 years old and my first major experience was that match I played against my childhood rival and friend, Richard Gasquet. From that day on, I truly understood what Roland-Garros meant.” It was exactly twenty years to the day since his first center court match in the 2005 second round against Xavier Malisse.

Getting personal, Rafa thanked his family in Spanish, his voice cracking with emotion. Tears welled up as he spoke about his wife and his uncle and lifelong coach, Toni Nadal, who have been his rock throughout this incredible journey. The heartfelt moment touched everyone watching.

He closed in French, addressing the crowd one last time: “Finally, thank you, France, thank you, Paris. You have given me emotions and moments I could never have imagined. You cannot imagine how gratifying it is to feel loved and appreciated in the place that means the most to you.”

He added, “You offered me the opportunity to end my career to receive the Olympic flame from Zizou, you gave me a magnificent statue here at Roland-Garros.” Nadal’s words sealed a magical farewell: “My heart and my memories will always remain linked to this magical place and these people. Thank you so much for what you made me feel.”

It’s emotional to see the legend walk away from the court. But Roland Garros took it a step further—literally. They honored him with a plaque of his footprint carved into the clay. It’s a fitting tribute for the champion who did it all.

But back to the broadcasting issue. This isn’t the first time fans or Rennae herself have spoken up about the lack of translations and subtitles. Ironically, that time was Nadal’s last match!

Rennae Stubbs gets furious at broadcasters for the Davis Cup

Rafael Nadal’s final professional match at the Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga on November 19, 2024, was a truly emotional moment. Even before the first serve, the Spanish anthem played, and the usually composed champion struggled to hold back tears. It showed just how much representing Spain one last time meant to him. The crowd was electric, bursting into cheers and a standing ovation for their hero. Despite his best fight, Nadal lost in straight sets to Botic van de Zandschulp, ending both his match and Spain’s Davis Cup run.

That match felt like closing a circle for Nadal. He said after the match, “I lost my first match in the Davis Cup, and I lost my last one. So we close the circle.” His Davis Cup story began in 2004 when, as an 18-year-old, he helped Spain win by beating world No. 2 Andy Roddick. Finishing his career on home soil in the same competition, 20 years later, was deeply meaningful.

However, the broadcasters faced criticism for not providing subtitles during Nadal’s speech. Fans were frustrated, and Rennae Stubbs didn’t hold back. She posted, “Hey TC some people can understand Spanish. So let’s hear it, no matter what! I mean no offense to the commentators, but get some Spanish interpretation on the screen. I’m livid.” The lack of captions left many viewers feeling disconnected from the moment.

With his ceremony at Roland Garros now behind us, let’s hope next time subtitles aren’t an afterthought. Tennis is a global sport; everyone deserves to understand these historic moments. What’s your take? Share your thoughts in the comments below!