Richard Gasquet Trend Explodes: Why the French Tennis Maestro Is Dominating Headlines Today

French tennis icon Richard Gasquet bowed out of professional tennis on Court Philippe-Chatrier tonight, ending a 22-year ATP career in front of an adoring Roland Garros crowd. The 38-year-old wildcard fell 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 to red-hot world No. 2 Jannik Sinner in the second round, but the scoreboard could not dim the ovation that followed his last trademark single-handed backhand. A farewell scripted in Paris Gasquet confirmed earlier this month that the 2025 French Open would be his final tournament, calling the clay-court major “the only place that ever made sense for goodbye.” It is his 22nd appearance at Roland Garros, a men’s record he now shares with fellow Frenchman Fabrice Santoro. The Montpellier native first walked these grounds as a 15-year-old prodigy; two decades later, he leaves with 602 tour-level wins, 16 ATP titles and three Grand Slam semifinals. Sinner respectful but clinical Facing a player 16 years his senior, Sinner shrugged off the partisan atmosphere with laser-like baseline hitting. He broke in the opening game and never relinquished control, extending his unbeaten Grand Slam streak to 17 matches. “Richard is a legend of our sport. Sharing this moment with him is special,” the Italian told the crowd in French, drawing roars of approval. Career snapshots • Peak ranking: world No. 7 (July 2007) • Signature shot: one-handed backhand, widely considered among the most elegant of the Open Era • Notable wins: Roger Federer (Monte Carlo 2005), Andy Roddick (Wimbledon 2007), Daniil Medvedev (Cincinnati 2021) • Davis Cup champion with France in 2017 Legacy beyond numbers Gasquet never captured the Slam title many predicted when he graced the cover of France’s Tennis Magazine at age 9, yet his artistry earned unwavering admiration from fans and peers alike. Rafael Nadal once dubbed his backhand “a painting in motion,” while Novak Djokovic praised Gasquet’s longevity, saying “he kept the craft of finesse alive in an era of power.” What’s next for “Richie” In his post-match press conference, Gasquet revealed plans to join the French Tennis Federation as a roving mentor, focusing on junior transition to the pro tour. He also hinted at a commentary role during the Paris Olympics later this summer, ensuring his nuanced analysis—and Gallic wit—remain part of the sport’s soundtrack. SEO takeaway Richard Gasquet retirement, Roland Garros 2025 farewell, and final match versus Jannik Sinner are set to dominate tennis searches this week. Fans looking for Gasquet’s career highlights, records, and future plans will find them right here, along with live French Open updates as the clay-court drama continues.