Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime, 21, admitted he is sad to see Jo-Wilfried Tsonga retiring but remains hopeful that the Frenchman will enjoy a happy life in his retirement.
On Tuesday, the career of 37-year-old Tsonga came to an end.
After 18 years on the ATP Tour, Tsonga decided to call it a career.
“It’s always sad to see idols of you retiring,” Auger-Aliassime said, per Tennis Up To Date. “Personally I feel sad but also happy for Jo, he’s starting his new life, new adventures with his family and everything. but he was an idol of mine growing up. Also to have someone who is similar to you, has a similar story, to see him on TV, what he was doing, it was inspiring for me for his game, for his charisma and for the person he was.”
Auger-Aliassime got a chance to play and beat his idol
In February, Auger-Aliassime and Tsonga clashed in the Marseille last-16.
Auger-Aliassime, who grew up idolizing Tsonga, was absolutely thrilled to get a chance to play the Frenchman.
Auger-Aliassime clinched a straight-set win over Tsonga and after the match shared some kind words to the Frenchman.
“8 year old Felix had dreams about this match. Amazing to share the court with my childhood idol. Thank you for being an inspiration Jo,” Auger-Aliassime tweeted.
After seeing Auger-Alliasime’s message, Tsonga encouraged him to keep working hard and wished him all the best.
“Bravo @felixtennis, I played my idols too when I arrived on the tour. Victory or defeat, it’s the moments that remain engraved in our memories. I wish you all the success you deserve,” Tsonga tweeted in response.
Tsonga never won a Grand Slam title or reached the top ranking but still enjoyed a very successul career.
Tsonga was known as one of the most charismatic players and he was a fan favorite wherever he went.