By Erik Gudris | @atntennis | Thursday, May 29, 2025
Photo credit: Shi Tang/Getty
Veteran of the French tennis scene, Richard Gasquet, is savoring his farewell at the French Open and expresses that he has no regrets as he closes this illustrious chapter of his life.
At the age of 38, Gasquet faced World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, bowing out in the second round with a score of 6-3, 6-0, 6-4, to a warm and affectionate crowd in Paris.
Following the match, the French Tennis Federation honored him with a heartfelt farewell ceremony, featuring tributes from esteemed friends and rivals like Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Gilles Simon, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, among others.
Gasquet receiving heartfelt applause from fellow competitors on tour #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/4f6OgHus2Y
— Cracked Racquets ® (@CrackedRacquets) May 29, 2025
During his press conference, Gasquet admitted it’s surreal to realize that his professional tennis career has concluded, yet he looks forward to what lies ahead.
“It’s a bit odd that it’s all over. I can’t say otherwise. It feels strange to wrap things up here, as I haven’t fully absorbed it yet. But I’m very content to finish at nearly 39 years old,” he remarked.
Merci Richard 🥹#RolandGarrospic.twitter.com/VXuzIqC5Lh
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) May 29, 2025
“I couldn’t have imagined a better finale, as you never know what might happen in your last tournament,” Gasquet shared. “Ending today on Chatrier against the world’s top player is simply a fantastic conclusion for me.
“I feel great about my performance in this tournament. It’s a little strange, as there’s no pressure anymore. No recovery, no training. This is the most astonishing part. My mind keeps telling me I need to rest and recover.”
Nadal, who recently bid his own farewell in Paris, shared a touching message on social media for his long-time friend, reminiscing their journey together since childhood.
Dear @richardgasquet1… Since we were kids, we have shared so many moments, both on and off the court. Many tournaments, cities, matches…
Throughout your remarkable career, your talent has shined globally, and I’m thrilled you could say goodbye in such a meaningful way… pic.twitter.com/Phw93TQdmu
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) May 29, 2025
With an impressive tally of 610 ATP Tour victories, 16 titles, over $21 million in prize money, and a career-best ranking of World No. 7, Gasquet has certainly left his mark.
What’s next for him? More tennis, but this time played with joy and passion.
“Absolutely! I love playing the game. Just for the joy of it, that’s why I’ll keep playing,” Gasquet expressed. “Doing so without the pressure, without rigorous training, for the pure pleasure, will be fantastic. I’ll continue to do just that.
“Tennis is my passion. I’ve always adored playing, and that won’t change.”
