Estoril Open: Tennis’ ‘Big 3’ Join Hands to Pay Heartfelt Tribute to the Recently Retired Portuguese ATP Star

On top of having a former number 28 ranking, João Sousa has amassed four ATP singles titles during his competitive journey. But after establishing himself as a household figure on the men’s tour, the Portuguese tennis star has now decided to bid adieu to the racket game this season. As he recently played his farewell match at the ongoing Estoril Open, Sousa also received a heartfelt message from the ‘Big 3,’ consisting of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.

The 35-year-old player recently failed to overcome his French opponent, Arthur Fils, in the opening round, as it turned out to be his farewell game. Following his defeat at his home tournament, the official Twitter page of the Estoril Open revealed that the ‘Big 3’ made a special appearance on the on-court screen during Sousa’s retirement ceremony. The social media stated, “João Sousa received messages from the entire BIG THREE in his retirement ceremony! 😍👏”

Aside from the singles category, the Portuguese player also participated in the doubles event, where he teamed up with his Brazilian colleague, Joao Fonseca. However, Sousa and Fonseca tasted a first-round defeat at the hands of Sem Verbeek and Marcelo Demoliner.

As it was an emotional moment for him, Sousa received a standing ovation from everyone at the sports complex of Clube de Ténis do Estoril, including his French opponent, who also pulled off a special act for him.

Arthur Fils also had a heartfelt message for João Sousa

After winning his opener in a straight set, 7-5, 6-4, the fifth-seeded player pulled off a heartwarming gesture for his Portuguese opponent, who played his farewell match. As part of the customary post-match routine, Arthur Fils signed his congratulations on the camera lens. Apart from his special act, the Frenchman also had a heartfelt message for João Sousa in the on-court interview.

The former number 34 player congratulated Sousa for his remarkable competitive journey on the men’s tour by saying, “I want to congratulate João for his amazing career, it’s unbelievable.” While lauding his Portuguese colleague’s stellar on-court prowess, Fils hailed him as one of the toughest opponents on clay court surfaces. The French player said, “He played amazing for his last match! He’s one of the toughest opponents on clay, so I’m happy about the win. I was trying to stay focused on the match and nothing else.”

What do you think of the heartfelt messages for the Portuguese tennis star as he has now put down his racket? Let us know in the comments section.

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