It was an emotional day yesterday at Roland Garros. French tennis bid adieu to one of its greatest players, as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga played the last match of his illustrious career. Despite lacking match fitness, the Frenchman gave his all in his last match. Moreover, the crowd was on their feet as he played his final point. Tsonga was in tears himself on the final point, relishing the memories he had over the years. The emotions could be felt not just by his fans, but across the tennis fraternity.

As Tsonga called time on his career, his fellow players poured in their wishes. In particular, Swiss Maestro Roger Federer had a special message for his friend.

Roger Federer thanks Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for all the glorious memories

The 20-time Grand Slam champion took to Twitter to shower praise on Tsonga for having an illustrious tennis career. He said, “Congrats Jo Willy on an epic career. It was a pleasure to share the court with you. So many great memories.”

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The 37-year-old Frenchman played one of the most memorable matches of his career against Federer. During the 2011 Wimbledon Championships, Tsonga came back from two sets down to defeat the Swiss legend in the quarterfinals.

Tsonga eventually bowed out of the tournament in the semifinals, losing against the eventual champion, Novak Djokovic.

Tsonga’s final note

The 37-year-old bid goodbye to tennis with an emotional speech. He said, “I hope the world can soon find as much peace I found today. Thank you Roland. Thank you Mister Tennis. I love you. I realized my dreams and I wish every child in the world to do the same.” His words are sure to tug at the heartstrings of every tennis fan.

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Meanwhile, Casper Ruud progressed to the second round of the French Open after his win against Tsonga. He will next take on the Finnish No.1, Emil Ruusuvuori.