Tennis Player Jannik Sinner Sending France's Beloved Ex-Tennis Star into Melancholic Mode
Farewell to French Favorite Richard Gasquet at French Open
A somber mood pervaded Roland Garros this week following the retirement announcements of former champion Stan Wawrinka and fan-favorite Richard Gasquet. Gasquet, a renowned figure known for his one-handed backhand, exited the tournament in the second round and bid adieu to the sport.
In a heartfelt match, the 35-year-old Frenchman lost to Italian youngster Jannik Sinner, who swept the competition with scores of 6-3, 6-0, 6-4, furthering his path towards becoming the first Italian to win Paris in 49 years. Sinner, a mere babe in Gasquet's arms when the latter made his ATP Tour debut, expressed his admiration for Gasquet's career, promising that today was Gasquet's moment to shine.
Sinner, who potentially faces Alexander Zverev in the semifinals, advances to the third round to face Czech Jiri Lehecka. The latter defeated Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in their match.
During a poignant on-court tribute, Gasquet was presented with a memento featuring a piece of the iconic Paris clay court. Despite playing his second Grand Slam event since completing a three-month doping ban just before the French Open, Sinner portrayed no vulnerability on Court Philippe Chatrier.
Richard Gasquet achieved a wealth of accolades in his tennis career. Over the span of two decades, he accumulated more than 15 ATP singles titles, reached a high of world number seven, and consistently ranked in the top 50. His most significant grand slam results include semifinals at Wimbledon and the US Open. For tennis enthusiasts admiring beautiful one-handed backhands, this week marks a bittersweet moment with the departures of both Gasquet and Wawrinka.
Source: ntv.de, sue/sid
The exit of Richard Gasquet in the second round of the French Open marks the end of a notable sporting career, filled with more than 15 ATP singles titles, high world rankings, and impressive performances at Wimbledon and the US Open. In a poignant tribute, Gasquet, known for his stylish one-handed backhand, was celebrated as he bid farewell to the tennis court.
