‘Sad That He Is Going’ – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic Pour Their Love for Jo-Wilfried Tsonga During His Retirement Felicitation at French Open 2022

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the French tennis ace, turned pro in the year 2004. Thereafter, he made it to the finals of the Australian Open in 2008 and the semifinals of the Wimbledon championship in 2011 and 2012. Following that, Tsonga claimed his career’s highest ranking of World No.5  due to his splendid performance in these tournaments. Now, after winning 18 singles and 4 doubles titles, the French tennis star has decided to bid farewell to his professional career.

Just before the French Open, Tsonga announced that it would be his last tournament. Therefore, on Tuesday, when the Norwegian youngster, Casper Ruud, defeated him, it marked the end of a long and successful career.

The Big Three share their thoughts about Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Tsonga’s goodbye took several players who he has played against on a trip down the memory lane. Therefore, many stars contributed in the clip made as a tribute to the French superstar. Here’s what the Big Three had to say about him.

Novak Djokovic, who is the defending champion of the ongoing French Open, said, “Jo is one of the most charismatic tennis players ever to play the game. And I was very happy to share the court with him many times. We get along very well. He is a really nice guy.”

Thereafter the 20-time Grand Slam champion spoke about Tsonga’s contribution to the game. “He brought a lot of…I think positive attention and popularity to our sport….. It’s a big loss for professional men’s tennis to have him retire, but I wish him all the best. He definitely should be happy about his career and achievements. He has made his mark and legacy in our sports”, Djokovic said.

Following that, the 21-time Grand Slam champion, Rafael Nadal, spoke about his childhood friend and said, “I know him since we were kids. Good guy, I think he brings a lot of positive things to our sport. So I am sad to see him going, but we are getting old, so it’s going to happen for everyone.”

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Roger Federer, who has been out of the circuit for almost a year, now took some time out of his busy rehab schedule to say a few words to the Frenchman. He chose French to convey his feeling, and said, “Ciao Jo-willy. So I’d like to congratulate you too on a fantastic career. I got a lot of pleasure out of playing against you, losing to you. We’ll miss you on the tour. I wish you all the best for the future with your family….. See you soon Jo-Willy. Take care!”

Tsonga’s last match

Tsonga locked horns with the 23-year-old Norwegian, Casper Ruud, in the first round of the French Open. Ruud, who has came out victorious in last week’s Geneva Open out-muscled the 37-year-old in four sets. However, Tsonga’s struggle with a shoulder injury mid-match also played a major part in the outcome. Although the charismatic Frenchman gave a tough fight, he eventually lost by a scoreline of 7-6 (6), 6-7 (4), 2-6, 6-7 (0).

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The Norwegian will next play the current Finish No.1 Emil Ruusuvuori for a ticket to the last 32 of the French Open on May 26.