These legends will complete their last dance in this US Open!
The 2024 US Open, set for August 26 to September 8, promises to deliver thrilling matchups, with the tennis world eagerly anticipating the rivalry between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as Novak Djokovic aims to defend his title. However, this year's tournament will also mark the final Grand Slam appearance for several tennis stars. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the top five players bidding farewell to Grand Slam tennis at the 2024 US Open:
Diego Schwartzman is set to play his final tournament in his home country, Argentina, in February 2025, but the 2024 US Open is likely to be his last Grand Slam appearance. While he could potentially compete at the 2025 Australian Open, it would require him to maintain peak form and consistent performance. The former World No. 8, with four career titles, is nearing the end of his career at age 32. Currently ranked 230, Schwartzman has struggled this year, losing all seven matches he has played. His farewell to the sport is now on the horizon.
Former World No. 7 Richard Gasquet, a two-time junior Grand Slam champion, has been competing since 2002. Despite his talent, he has struggled to fully realise his potential during the 'Big Three' era. A three-time singles Grand Slam semi-finalist, Gasquet has faced challenges since undergoing surgery in 2019, impacting his performance on tour. Now 37, he did not receive a wildcard for the 2024 US Open and will need to go through the qualifiers to secure a place in the main draw.
At 37, Gael Monfils delivered a memorable victory over four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz at the 2024 Cincinnati Open. A two-time singles Grand Slam champion, Monfils is known for his showmanship, including spectacular trick shots like jumping backhands and tweeners. Despite his flair, he hasn’t fully reached his potential. The former World No. 6 last advanced to the second week of a Grand Slam at the 2022 Australian Open, where he lost to Matteo Berrettini in the quarterfinals. Struggling since, Monfils has hinted at retirement, citing his desire to spend more time with his daughter, potentially announcing his retirement after the 2024 US Open.
Dominic Thiem's retirement, though anticipated, is still a blow to tennis fans. Known for his charm and flair, Thiem reached the French Open finals in 2018 and 2019 and won his first Grand Slam at the 2020 US Open, defeating Alexander Zverev. However, a right wrist injury sustained at the Mallorca Championships halted his career, and despite multiple procedures, he never regained his former level. Thiem announced his retirement earlier this year and received a wild card for the 2024 US Open, marking his final Grand Slam appearance.
Stan Wawrinka, the 2016 US Open champion, is 39 and nearing the end of his career. As one of only two players to win three Grand Slam titles during the 'Big 3' era, his on-court achievements are often underestimated. While Andy Murray retired after the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he reached the men’s doubles third round with Dan Evans, Wawrinka was knocked out in the second round of the men’s singles. Ageing has taken its toll, and the 2024 US Open could be his final Grand Slam appearance. Wawrinka received a wild card for the tournament.
While the mentioned players have had their share of successes and failures, the departure from the major arena of the sport must be very difficult!
