Gilles Simon shares touching message to wife during farewell speech



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Gilles Simon shares touching message to wife during farewell speech

Former world No 6 Gilles Simon acknowledged his wife in front of a packed Bercy as he underlined that she was one of the main reasons why he was able to enjoy a long career and successful career. On Thursday, 37-year-old Simon played the final match of his career as he was beaten by Felix Auger-aliassime in the Paris Masters round-of-16.

Simon, who has been with Carine Laurent for well over a decade, shares two sons with his wife - born in 2010 and 2013. Simon's wife didn't really want to be at the center of attention during her husband's farewell, but the former world No 6 made sure to make it clear how important she was to his career.

Simon to his wife: You made this possible

"My wife is hiding in the stands. She should have been on the court. Thank you for everything. I know how difficult all this was for you. I am finishing (this speech) with you, because otherwise it would have been too hard.

All these moments when you were proud of me, or you wanted me to stop. All these arrivals at the hotel at 2 in the morning. We both know how difficult this role in the background can be. I am so happy to tell you that it's over now.

I will be there. I thank you for letting me live my passion for so long. It was so important to know that everything was being handled perfectly at home. I love you with all my heart and thank you for it all," Simon said, per Christopher Clarey of The New York Times.

Meanwhile, Simon enjoyed a nice sendoff in the French capital.

After beating Andy Murray in the first round, Simon also upset Taylor Fritz. Those two wins took a lot of energy from Simon, who lost 6-1 6-3 to Auger-Aliassime. But the result was secondary as Simon got a chance to say goodbye to tennis in his home tournament and in front of his family and friends.

Gilles Simon