Former world No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga says he feels relieved and excited ahead of his final tournament.
Tsonga, 37, is set to end his career in front of his home fans at the French Open.
In March, Tsonga announced his plans to retire at the French Open.
Tsonga, who is now ranked outside the top-200, was awarded a wildcard for his final French Open.
Tsonga didn’t have much luck with the draw as he will face world No. 8 Casper Ruud in the first round.
Tsonga knows that Ruud is the big favorite to win their meeting but he is not bothered by that as he has stated that whatever happens will be a celebration for him.
āI feel both relieved to know that it’s the last, because I still have my mind and my body telling me it’s time to stop, and at the same time very excited. I’ve always loved playing here at Roland Garros,Ā It has always been a very important moment in my career. Today, I want to go on the court. I will meet a player who is very good, who is very consistent. I know it will be a tough game ahead. I’m happy to be able to experience this and whatever happens, it will be a celebration for me,” Tsonga said, per We Love Tennis.
Tsonga never won a Grand Slam
Tsonga was one of the most talented and promising players of his generation and the French hoped he would become the first Grand Slam winner since Yannick Noah.
Tsonga has enjoyed a good career but he has never managed to win a Grand Slam and he will most likely finish without a Major title.
Playing at the French Open has always been very special for Tsonga and twice he came two wins away from winning it all at Roland Garros.
In 2013, Tsonga reached his first French Open semifinal before losing to David Ferrer.
Two years later, Tsonga was beaten by Stan Wawrinka also in the French Open semifinal.