WATCH: TOUCHING ROLAND-GARROS TRIBUTE REDUCES NADAL TO TEARS

Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray join Rafael Nadal as the 'big four' reunite. (Getty/Adam Pretty)

After exiting the first-round of Roland-Garros last year, it was likely to be Rafael Nadal's final appearance as a player, but it wasn't certain.

So, it was only fitting that the tournament in which he claimed an astonishing 14 titles sent him off on the best note possible.

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Fans on Court Philippe-Chatrier wore red 'merci Rafa' t-shirts to commemorate the 22-time major champion, with a touching piece of choreography reading the word 'Rafa' in one part of the stand.

The 38-year-old, who ended his career with 112 wins and four defeats at the French Open, was honoured with a permanent plaque with his footprint engraved on the clay, which will remain forever.

"I've experienced everything over these 20 years," Nadal said.

"I've had incredible rivals, like Andy, Novak and of course Roger. And of course, many others who pushed me to my physical and mental limits. Truly, nothing would have been as thrilling without these long-lasting rivalries that have driven all of us to improve every single day.

"Roland-Garros is unique, not only because it is a fundamental part of tennis history, but because of all the people who work tirelessly, always with a smile, to make this tournament what it is: unique."

In attendance were Nadal's three biggest rivals throughout his sensational career: Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray, all of whom acknowledged the Spaniard's contribution to the sport.

A tribute video containing the three rivals was shown on the big screen, with Djokovic adding, "We couldn't let you leave like that," before the trio joined Nadal on court together.

"To have my three biggest rivals there, in the court with me, meant a lot. And at the same time, it's a great message for the world that the … toughest rivalries probably in the history of our sport are able to be good colleagues, to respect each other," Nadal said.

"You don't need to hate the opponent to try to beat him with all your forces, and that's the message that I think we showed people, we showed the new generations, and in some way that's our legacy."

Nadal's family was also in the crowd for the special occasion, including his wife, son and former coach uncle Toni.

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