paid tribute to Richard Gasquet as he officially sent the former world No. 7 into retirement. After suffering a straight-set defeat to the top seed, the Frenchman's career came to an end, and he was honoured in an emotional ceremony on Court Philippe-Chatrier days after Rafael Nadal received .
In the last tournament of his career, Gasquet earned one final win on Chatrier when he beat countryman Terence Atmane in the first round. And he was rewarded with a meeting with world No. 1 Sinner.
The 38-year-old put in an impressive shift in his last-ever match against the three-time Major winner. He kept the first set tight, and after getting bagelled in set two, Gasquet stepped it up again and stayed with the top seed for eight games.
The former world No. 7 showed glimpses of his old self when he reeled off some winners and unleashed his signature one-handed backhand. But Sinner finally got the breakthrough, and the Court Philippe-Chatrier crowd cheered Gasquet on and chanted his name as he stepped up for his last game.
Gasquet's career ended with a forehand that just went long and the world No. 1 advanced 6-3 6-0 6-4, embracing the newly retired Frenchman at the net before sending him a heartfelt message during his on-court interview.
"I think we have a good relationship off the court, I can say. Of course we are different generation, but in the other way, it's your moment," the three-time Major winner started.
"For me, it's very difficult to talk now but congrats to your amazing career, you gave so much for this amazing crowd, for this home crowd. Congrats to your family, to your team, it's amazing.
"Without great people around each player, it's not possible to make such an incredible career. You played in an incredible era of tennis, and everyone will recognise you even after your retirement."
Sinner didn't want to take up too much time before Gasquet's retirement ceremony but he shared his wish to see the 38-year-old stay involved in tennis.
He added: "We all hope as players that you can still come sometimes to the tennis courts, it's so nice to have you around.
"Again, congrats to everything you've done, amazing career but mostly amazing person you are and I wish you all the best for the next chapter. And now it's your time, so I'm very grateful to be here."
The former world No. 7 was then honoured in a special presentation, receiving a trophy from tournament director Amelie Mauresmo and French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton as a career highlight reel played on the screens.
Gasquet addressed the crowd before receiving a montage of video messages, including old rivals and friends, Novak Djokovic and .
The 38-year-old addressed waved farewell to the Court Philippe-Chatrier crowd one final time before walking off the court and stepping into retirement.