The 2025 Rolex Paris Masters will mark the end of an era. French veteran Nicolas Mahut, one of the most accomplished doubles players of his generation, will play the final match of his professional career at his home tournament in Paris. The Frenchman announced his retirement in April after nearly three decades on tour, the 43-year-old has chosen the French capital as the perfect setting for his farewell, partnering with Grigor Dimitrov in doubles for one last run.
From Grass-Court Artist to Doubles Legend
Mahut first rose to prominence as a stylish grass-court player with a serve-and-volley game that seemed out of place in the modern era. His most famous singles moment came at Wimbledon in 2010, when he faced John Isner in what would become the longest match in tennis history—an 11-hour, five-minute epic spread across three days. Though Mahut fell short 70–68 in the fifth set, his performance cemented his reputation for grit, grace, and endurance. Now both Isner and Mahut are retired from tour, having participated in a feat that can’t be matched.
While he enjoyed brief success in singles, winning four ATP titles and reaching a career-high ranking of No. 37. Mahut’s greatest achievements came in doubles. Partnering primarily with Pierre-Hugues Herbert, the Frenchman captured five Grand Slam doubles titles: two at the French Open, two at Wimbledon, and one at the US Open.
A Decorated Career Built on Longevity
Mahut’s record speaks volumes. He held the World No. 1 doubles ranking in 2016, claimed 39 ATP doubles titles, and was part of France’s victorious 2017 Davis Cup team, delivering crucial wins under pressure. His career longevity is equally remarkable—spanning more than 20 years, during which he adapted from the serve-and-volley era to the baseline-dominated modern game without ever losing his flair or competitive spirit. Mahut retired from singles in 2021 and now retires in doubles.
A Farewell on Home Soil
Choosing the Paris Masters as his final event feels fitting. The tournament has always held special meaning for Mahut, who has represented French tennis with distinction across every stage of his career. Sharing the court with Dimitrov offers one last moment in front of a home crowd that has followed his journey from the junior ranks to the sport’s biggest stages.
For Mahut, this farewell isn’t just an ending; it’s a celebration of perseverance, reinvention, and passion for the game. Few players have embodied the joy of tennis quite like him. When he takes the court for the final time in Paris, the applause will echo not just for his titles, but for a career defined by artistry, heart, and longevity. With his versatile game, Mahut is likely to step into the coaching ranks as part of the French tennis hierarchy that continues to churn out top players.
Main Photo Credit: Imago Images BaptisteAutissier/Panoramic
