At 36 years of age and with 18 titles under his belt, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga announces that he will retire after the French Open. The entertaining Frenchman hit the headlines loud and strong when he surprisingly reached the Australian Open final back in 2008. Jo-Wilfried was part of a rather brilliant “generation” of highly talented tennis players.
Tsonga announces his retirement, publishing a video with the company of his wife.
“My head tells me, ‘But you can play all your life,’ and at the same time your body reminds you that your abilities to surpass yourself are no longer there. I hope that I will stay in shape before and be able to be who I always have been at this tournament,” he said.
The statement
This was the official statement:
“It is with great emotion that I announce today my decision to stop my professional career at the next French Open.
So many incredible moments, so much joy shared with a public that gave me a lot … hoping for one last thrill with you!
More to come at my press conference this weekend during the Monte-Carlo tournament.”
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in 2022
Currently ranked no.220, the French player played his last match on the 24th of March when he capitulated to world no.83 Jordan Thompson 6-7(1) 6-4 6-4 in the 1st round in Miami (draw).
Presently, during this year Tsonga has managed to achieve a 3-6 match record.
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga |
Embed from Getty Images |