The organizers of the Open GDF SUEZ paid tribute to Amelie Mauresmo, former world No.1 and two-time Grand Slam champion who retired in December 2009. The very touching ceremony took place on Center Court of the Pierre de Coubertin Stadium.
Amelie was joined by fellow Frenchwomen Julie Coin, Alize Cornet, Nathalie Dechy and Tatiana Golovin (I hope people still remember her), as well as Patty Schnyder, Francesca Schiavone, Tathiana Garbin, Alisa Kleybanova, Flavia Pennetta and Elena Dementieva. The widescreen was showing the highlights of Amelie’s career: her greatest victories and souvenirs from her friendships with coaches Loïc Courteau and Hugo Lecoq.
The 30-year-old, whose last career title came at the Open GDF SUEZ, expressed her love of the tournament:
I really have a special relationship with this tournament and this court. It is very moving to have to say goodbye here. I’m going to miss you all. I have one thing to say, ‘Thank you!’ It may be simple, and it may be brief, but all the greatest moments in my career have happened here.
Here’s a short video from the ceremony:
Reminder: Check out our yesterday’s post about Amelie’s plans in her new life. (photos by Stephane Martinache)
It looked like a sweet tribute to an awesome player! I <3 Amelie! AND yes! Tatiana! I wish she could still play, I haven't heard any news about her back condition. Hope she's doing well, she sure looks good!
The last I read is that she’s unlikely to return, her back injury is that bad.
I miss Amelie already, such a loss to see her gone, french tennis will be nothing without her. It’s arleady gone down hill now. She was one of the few like Mary Pierce to win a grand slam in this open era that has been an inspiration to many. I really
think she was a good player!. I will miss Mauresmo…
Was nice “goodbye” for Ameli
I’ve heard Golovin has some chronic back problem. Shame, she was a good player. So Amelie will be commenting matches, hmm, interesting. Hopefully she#ll do some of it in English, she has a cute accent.
I loved the tribute to Amelie also. The other players seemed truly appreciative of her. Like others of you, I am really sorry about Golovin. I remember her winning Amelia Island and Portoroz in 2007 and then seemingly start to disappear. I wish her luck. I also wish luck for Amelie for her future endeavors. With the players today, it doesn’t seem there will be another like her (except Henin who plays with variety) soon.
Golovin has spondylosis. Her case is serious and chronic, and prevents her from playing.