Paris, May 28, 2025– What promised to be a solemn and emotional ceremony in honor of the legendary Rafael Nadal was transformed, for a few minutes, in a crossing of statements that shook the world of tennis. The spark that ignited the controversy was a provocative phrase of the young ItalianLorenzo Musetti, who, during his speech at the tribute, launched a comment that bothered those present and unleashed an answer that nobody saw coming … especially from Nadal.

The Philippe-Champitr was dressed in gala. Low lights, epic images of the 14 Titles of Roland Garros de Nadal projected on giant screens, and an alignment of world tennis legends, from Federer and Djokovic to Del Potro and Andy Murray. Even some historical coaches were invited, includingMarian, the iconic former coach of Novak Djokovic, whose presence, apparently, was not liked by everyone.

“Andy Murray is always an attachment …”

During the round of speeches, Lorenzo Musetti, just 23 years old and one of the most promising players of the circuit, took the microphone with relaxed air. What he said below left the public in a tense silence:

“Andy Murray is always an attachment to this type of event … But why is here the former Djokovic former man? This is a tribute to Rafa, not a meeting of the great four.”

The comment caused a mixture of nervous laughs, sighs and looks of amazement. Federer frowned, Murray crossed his arms and Djokovic, from the stands, simply laughed, as if it weren’t with him. However, everyone’s attention focused on Rafa.

Rafael Nadal, always diplomatic, got up a few minutes later to close the act. His serene voice contrasted with the intensity of his words:

“Lorenzo, if you have come here, it is because this sport has opened doors to you. Those doors were also open for those who are sitting here today, including Marian, Andy, Novak, Roger … This ceremony is not just about me. It is about what we build together. On the court, we won or lose. But in life, what matters is respect. And it seems that some still need to learn it.”

The silence that followed was absolute. Musetti could not hide his discomfort. He lowered his head and applauded shyly as the audience stood up to cheer Nadal’s words.

Networks explode

In a matter of minutes, social networks were filled with reactions. Most of the comments were critical to Musetti. The hashtag#RespetoparafaIt was worldwide trend for more than 12 hours.

An X user wrote:“Does Musetti believe he can speak of legends?

Another viral message said:“Andy Murray is always an attachment … yes, to the history of tennis, humility, courage. Learn, Lorenzo.”

Even Andy Murray, known for his British humor, was not far behind and published in sarcastic tone:
“Enchanted to be a” attachment “in the history of this sport. Especially if that means applauding Rafa.”

Hours after the event, Musetti uploaded a story to Instagram with a black and white image by Nadal raising a trophy and a message:

“I deeply admire Rafa. My words were misunderstood. I regret if I offended someone, especially at such a special moment.”

However, his gesture failed to placate criticism. Some companions of the circuit, privately, said that their words were “unnecessary and immature.”

Beyond the incident, it is clear that this episode will mark a before and after in the public career of Musetti. Experts believe that talent is not enough to be a star: wisdom is also needed to know when to speak … and when to remain silent.

And if anyone knows that, it is Rafael Nadal, who, with a single sentence, taught Musetti – and the world – than in tennis, respect is not won with points, but with humility.

And on that court, Nadal is still invincible. 🎾