Diego Schwartzman thanked the Flushing Meadows crowd for their support over the years after the Argentine’s final appearance at the U.S. Open ended with a 6-7(2), 6-2, 6-2, 6-1 first-round defeat against Frenchman Gael Monfils on Monday.
Former World No. 8 Schwartzman, 32, has said he would finish his career after the Argentina Open in February.
Following his match against Monfils a video was played on court showing some highlights of his performances at the New York Grand Slam.
“It’s difficult to speak. I am a guy who cries a lot. Sorry,” a teary-eyed Schwartzman said.
“I’m not supposed to cry now, I have to be strong. (These are) special moments, like you saw before on the screen. Once again, playing here, 11 times in a row. Playing in a Grand Slam, at the U.S. Open.
Gael Monfilstalks with Diego Schwartzman after their US Open match on Monday. | Photo Credit: AFP
“I did great, but I think (also) the entire crowd, today and in the years before, all the Latin American people, all the American people here. I don’t know why they take care of me so well every year, and I’m not sure if I deserve it or not, but I’m really grateful for all the years I have been here,” he added.
A two-time quarterfinalist at the U.S. Open, Schwartzman said his match against Monfils was the perfect way to sign off at the tournament.
“It was an end that I always dreamed of, you know, on a big court against a big opponent like Gael. Enjoying a few moments in the match. Not every moment because at the end I was struggling,” he told reporters.
“I think it was great this journey here in the U.S. Open, every single moment was great, and I really enjoyed... It’s crazy for me. Since I’m young, I never dreamed of this. I finished my career this way, it’s very special and very emotional.”
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