David Goffin Retires From Tennis After Brussels Defeat
Belgian star David Goffin ended his professional career following a second-round loss at the ATP 250 in Brussels, concluding a journey that included six titles and wins over Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer.
David Goffin retired from professional tennis on Thursday after a second-round loss at the ATP 250 tournament in Brussels. The 35-year-old was beaten 6-3, 6-4 by world No. 37 Alex Michelsen, a defeat that came less than 24 hours after he had symbolically won his first-round match.
Goffin's career was celebrated in an on-court ceremony at Brussels Expo after his final match. Tributes recorded by several tennis stars played on the big screen. His mother, wife, and daughter also spoke at the event. Goffin described the entrance as both the best and toughest he'd ever experienced.
Career highlights and top-10 scalps
Goffin amassed a 358-276 win-loss record during his career. He won six ATP Tour titles and reached a career-high ranking of world No. 7, making him the only Belgian man ranked in the top 10. He was a runner-up at the 2017 ATP Finals and the 2019 Cincinnati Masters and a four-time Grand Slam quarter-finalist.
He earned 21 wins against top 10 players. Goffin beat every member of the Big Three-Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer-during his career. His list of top-10 scalps also included victories over Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, and Stan Wawrinka.
Tributes from the tennis world
Rafael Nadal, Grigor Dimitrov, and Richard Gasquet led the tributes. In a video message, Nadal congratulated Goffin on his incredible career. "It was an immense pleasure to share practice sessions, matches and great moments alongside you on the tour," Nadal said.
Gasquet called it an honor to share all those moments. He described Goffin as an extraordinary player and a wonderful person. Dimitrov, who played Goffin 11 times, congratulated him on his incredible career and amazing journey.
The retirement ceremony and legacy
The emotional ceremony highlighted a career defined by resilience and landmark victories. Goffin helped Belgium reach the Davis Cup final in 2015 and 2017. Reflecting on his journey, Goffin said he was proud of all his career. "I gave everything to try to reach my goals," he stated.
He added that he had no regrets and gave everything until the very end. The event closed a chapter that began with a symbolic first-round win the day prior. Everything was perfect, Goffin said, after finishing his last match with a winning shot.
