Alizé Cornet, the French tennis star, has announced her retirement from the sport after the upcoming Roland Garros tournament. The 34-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable career, spanning over two decades, and holds the Open Era record for most consecutive Grand Slam tournaments played with 68.
Cornet’s longevity is a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. She made her Grand Slam main-draw debut at the age of 15 in Paris in 2005 and has not missed a major main draw since the 2007 Australian Open. This remarkable streak has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and fans alike.
Throughout her career, Cornet has achieved notable success, including six WTA singles titles. She famously defeated Serena Williams three times in 2014, all while the American was ranked No. 1 in the world. In 2022, she ended Iga Swiatek’s 37-match winning streak, the longest this century, in the third round of Wimbledon. In total, Cornet boasts an impressive 25 career wins against Top 10 players.
Beyond her singles achievements, Cornet has also made significant contributions to French tennis. She has represented her country in four Olympic Games and played on France’s Billie Jean King Cup team for 14 years. Her dedication and passion for the sport have inspired countless young players.
Cornet’s retirement marks the end of an era in French tennis. She has been a role model for aspiring athletes and a source of pride for her country. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of tennis players.
