Farewell to the 'Little Mozart': Richard Gasquet Bids Adieu to Tennis

Richard Gasquet, once dubbed the 'little Mozart of French tennis,' will retire after the French Open at age 38, finishing a renowned tennis career without a major title. Known for his exceptional one-handed backhand, Gasquet's transition to retirement marks the end of a generation of French tennis talent.

Richard Gasquet, affectionately termed the 'little Mozart of French tennis,' has announced his retirement plans, marking the end of a distinguished career devoid of a Grand Slam title. At age 38, Gasquet revealed to L'Equipe that he will conclude his journey after next year's French Open, capping off a sporting saga filled with triumphs and challenges.

Gasquet, whose illustrious career saw him reach a peak ATP ranking of No. 7 in 2007, was once considered a strong contender for Grand Slam victories. Despite his best efforts, he advanced no further than the semifinals at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. With 16 Tour titles and a memorable Davis Cup win in 2017, Gasquet joins compatriots Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Gilles Simon as part of a remarkable era in French tennis now entering retirement.

Having begun his tennis journey at the tender age of three under his father Francis's guidance, Gasquet has experienced tennis across decades, culminating in 1,005 matches throughout his career. Despite not overcoming Rafael Nadal, a player he rivals since his youth, Gasquet remains optimistic about his post-tennis pursuits, aiming to study management and mentor the next generation of tennis talents.

(With inputs from agencies.)