In an emotional farewell, Alizé Cornet played her final singles match at the 2024 French Open. The 34-year-old French star, known for her tenacity and memorable victories, faced off against China’s Qinwen Zheng but fell 2-6, 1-6 in the first round. This match marked the end of Cornet’s illustrious singles career, which spanned nearly two decades.
A Final Battle on Home Soil
Alizé Cornet, who had announced in April that this year’s French Open would be her last tournament, saw her singles journey conclude in just 83 minutes. Facing the seventh-seeded and 12-years-younger Qinwen Zheng proved to be a formidable challenge for the veteran player. Despite the early exit, Cornet’s legacy on the clay courts of Paris remains significant.
A Celebrated Career
Cornet’s career was honored in a special ceremony attended by Gilles Moretton, President of the French Tennis Federation, and tournament director Amelie Mauresmo. A tribute video played on the big screen, highlighting Cornet’s achievements, including her six WTA titles and peak ranking of world No. 11 in 2009. Her best Grand Slam performance was reaching the quarterfinals at the 2022 Australian Open. Cornet’s French Open appearances span 20 years, a testament to her enduring presence in the sport.
Giant Slayer
Cornet has a history of toppling giants in the tennis world. She famously defeated world No. 1 Serena Williams three times in 2014 and ended Iga Świątek’s 37-match winning streak at Wimbledon in 2022. These victories are a testament to her skill and competitive spirit, earning her respect and admiration from fans and peers alike.
Moving Forward
Although Cornet’s singles career has concluded, she is not stepping away from the court entirely. She will continue to compete in doubles and mixed doubles at this year’s French Open. Cornet’s passion for tennis and her contribution to the sport will be remembered as she transitions into this new chapter of her career.
As the tennis world bids farewell to one of its stalwarts, Alizé Cornet leaves behind a legacy of resilience, memorable matches, and an indomitable spirit. Her journey may be evolving, but her impact on the game will endure for years to come.
