The match “There is everything, there is the scenario, there are injuries, there was a very solid opponent opposite, because that too is part of my career. I think I’ve had amazing players all my career. The top 4, but also players like Del Potro, Cilic or Wawrinka. Today, in front of me, I had an intense and solid player who has a real regularity in the results. I wanted to end up like that on the court giving it my all, injured or not. I struggled with my emotions. It was hard, I had tears in my eyes before going on the field. »
The crowd support “It was amazing how the crowd supported me today. They gave me something to fight for and that’s what I did. I was very moved, this moment will remain in my memory. Somehow I ended up the way I wanted. I think it’s the adrenaline of getting on a big court like that, the adrenaline when you have 15,000 people screaming your name and carrying you onto the pitch. In fact, what happened today for me is unlikely, because I admit that I haven’t been at my best physically lately. But then, I haven’t felt like this for a very long time. I think it’s thanks to all that in fact, it’s thanks to the enthusiasm, to all those people who carry me every day, whether they’re relatives, people in the stands. It was madness! It’s one of the best atmospheres I’ve experienced in my career, and it happens in my last match. Couldn’t ask for better. »
The shoulder injury “I hurt myself on the break point to lead 6-5 and serve to win the fourth set. On the last forehand where he misses, I hurt myself. And when I go to serve, I realize that I can no longer lift my shoulder. I call the physio. I want to finish on the court, giving the maximum. I think I’ve gone all the way.”
The balance sheet “All the moments have been good, all along this path. Every moment was good to live, even the sad moments, even the difficult moments. I had so many good times. And what counted the most for me was to experience all of this while being well surrounded, to be able to share the sadness sometimes, sometimes the happiness. What I will remember, for sure, are all the bonds I have forged with the people around me.
The ceremony “I suspected that something was definitely going to happen, I didn’t know what, I especially didn’t know with whom. It was quite touching to see my first coaches come onto the court, even my parents who are still relatively discreet. I know it’s not something they like to do, show off, go in front of everyone. Even the guys, I knew that Gaël (Monfils) was coming, he told me, he couldn’t hold his tongue. (Laughs). I lived the moment thoroughly and I enjoyed myself. It is a moment that will remain engraved. »
The sequel“I will enjoy with my friends, because many have come from afar to see me and to celebrate. So I’m going to enjoy a little tonight. Tomorrow (Wednesday) I think I’m going to do some exams, because I think I hurt my shoulder badly. Earlier, my son asked me to wear it, I couldn’t: it’s not cool. What’s next is going to be to enjoy the summer a bit and rest, try to enjoy the people I haven’t been able to see all these years, who I’ve missed. »
