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'Gutted': Tennis fave's sad retirement decision before Roland Garros

Tennis star Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (pictured) thanking the crowd after a match.
French tennis icon Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (pictured) has announced his retirement from tennis following his year's Roland Garros. (Getty Images)

French tennis icon and fan favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga has announced his retirement from tennis at the conclusion of this year's Roland Garros.

The 36-year-old has long been a favourite with fas due to his athletic ability, power hitting and good humour on Tour.

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However the Frenchman has struggled with a number of injuries in recent years as he has been on-and-off the Tour.

Despite a brilliant career having won 18 ATP titles, he posted a 1-8 record in 2021.

But, wanting to go out on a high and in front of his home crowd, Tsonga has announced he will participate in his last Roland Garros before putting down in his racquet.

"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," Tsonga said in a video shared on social media.

"I hope that I will stay in shape before and be able to be who I always have been at this tournament," added Tsonga, referring to Roland Garros, which runs from May 22-June 5.

Jo-Wilfred Tsonga (pictured right) embracing Rafa Nadal (pictured left) at Wimbledon.
Jo-Wilfred Tsonga (pictured right) will go down as one of the pioneers of a new era of French Tennis. (Getty Images) (Getty Images)

"The goal is to be myself, to be Jo-Wilfried Tsonga the tennis player... I have always set myself high goals to try to get what I can. For me, this will be the opportunity to do it one last time."

Tennis world pays tribute to Tsonga

Having won over countless fans for his energetic style on and off the court, the tennis world was quick to pay tribute to one of the French players that inspired a new generation of players.

Tsonga finished runner-up at the Australian Open in 2008 and has reached another five Grand Slam semi-finals.

He has won 18 ATP titles, including two Masters 1000 tournaments, since turning professional in 2004 and also won an Olympic silver medal in doubles at the London Games in 2012.

with Reuters

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