Richard Gasquet has explained why he’s deciding to retire even though he doesn’t “feel ready”.
Earlier this month, the former world No. 7 announced that he would end his career at the 2025 French Open.
But the farewell ceremonies have already started for the iconic Frenchman, who played his final Paris Masters match on Tuesday.
Gasquet’s retirement announcement was largely overshadowed as he shared the news on the same day that Rafael Nadal confirmed he would be saying goodbye at next month’s Davis Cup Finals.
But the reality of his decision is starting to sink in after playing his first tournament since making his retirement plans official. Gasquet received a wildcard into the Paris Masters but fell at the first hurdle, suffering a 6-3 6-4 loss to lucky loser Zizou Bergs.
Afterwards, the 16-time title winner was honoured with an on-court ceremony. He burst into tears during the presentation and later admitted that he was only retiring for one reason.
“No, I’m giving 100 per cent of everything I have,” Gasquet said when asked if he would keep playing and practising before retiring at the French Open.
“I prepared so much for Bercy. I said to myself I would give 100 per cent of what I have, but the level was less good on this tournament. If I’m at this ranking now, it’s not for any reason. I ended up 130 worldwide. That’s why I’m stopping. Otherwise I wouldn’t end my career now.”
While Gasquet’s ranking isn’t where he wants it to be, the 38-year-old believes he can physically continue until he hangs up his racket at his home Grand Slam tournament.
He added: “I’m lucky to be in good physical shape, to play well, to be able to pretend to expect winning some matches. I try not to be wounded and to enjoy as much as I can. I’ll try to carry on until the French Open.”
But his standing of No. 133 in the world will make it difficult to keep playing on the main tour and Gasquet will now be relying on wildcards. The Frenchman has already named the tournaments he wants to compete in one final time.
“Montpellier, Marseilles, I would like to play last time, because they are dear to my heart” he explained.
“Monaco, as well. I’d like to play qualies in Monaco. A few challengers in France, as well. And Roland Garros. To try to have a nice season. There are beautiful tournaments to play ahead.”
However, Gasquet will struggle to get through his retirement ceremonies if Tuesday’s experience is anything to go by. Asked how he felt watching old clips and delivering a speech, he replied: “Well, I didn’t feel ready.
“You know, it was a first. You always have a first and a last. It was a first for me this time.
“When you play your first time, you play for the first time Roland Garros and Bercy, this is incredible. And I found myself with a mic for the first time today, and it felt like a first time. It was the first time, actually.
“Really, it moved me to end up this tournament this way, but I still have a few opportunities ahead. I’ll be 39 next year in Paris. I can’t wish any further.”
