Jannik Sinner Ends Richard Gasquet’s Career with Ruthless Win
Roland Garros
May 29, 2025
Jannik Sinner didn’t even administer the killer blow. Richard Gasquet did it to himself.
But not before showing us some irresistible, final flashes of that glorious French flair.
One last magical single-handed backhand gave Gasquet the chance to stay alive on match point. But then he overhit his follow-up forehand – and that was that.
A deafening silence descended on the Court Philippe-Chatrier as spectators realised their hero would never contest another point after twenty-two years in full flow.
Jannik Sinner had brought down the final curtain on an illustrious Gasquet career with a simple 6-3, 6-0, 6-4 victory.
Sinner spoke almost apologetically to the vast crowd: ‘This is a very very special place for me to play – and against Richard it’s tough. I’m happy to be in the third round. Thank you so much for being fair to me. I knew what was on the line, so thanks.’
Jannik Sinner may not have to handle quite such a delicate moment at Wimbledon 2025. Sir Andy Murray has already retired, after all.
It was 2002 when Richard Gasquet won his first match on the tour. Jannik was only a year old. The Frenchman is nearly thirty-nine now. Sinner may not even have reached his peak yet.
‘Richard, Richard,’ chanted the Roland Garros crowd one last time. They have been doing it since Jannik was in nappies. They didn’t want defeat to stop their routine. And you could see the tears welling in Gasquet’s grateful eyes.
Later Richard was given a piece of the famous clay court, a beautiful cross-section preserved in glass. A delicious slice of the Frenchman’s tennis life.
Jannik soldiered on with his victory speech – and quickly realised this was all about the man he had defeated.
‘I think we have a good relationship off the court. We are a different generation but it’s your moment. Congrats for your amazing career.
‘You have done so much for this crowd. Congrats to your family and team. Without great people around you, it’s not possible to make such an incredible career.
‘We hope as players you can still come to the tennis courts. It will be nice to have you around. You are an amazing person..’
Those final comments really did hit the right note. The Italian no longer wanted to be centre stage. He will return, though. Perhaps even for the French Open final.
Jannik Sinner’s thoughts will then swiftly turn to Wimbledon 2025. Sooner or later, he will win at the All England Club. Will it be this year?
And will you be on the historic Centre Court to witness Sinner’s Wimbledon 2025 campaign?
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