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Curtain falls for Safin
Del Potro defeat spells the end for former world number one
Last updated: 11th November 2009 
The curtain came down on Marat Safin's tennis career on Wednesday as the Russian was beaten in the second round of the Paris Masters by Juan Martin Del Potro.
Safin, 29, announced his decision to retire earlier in the season, but bade his final farewell in Paris - where he has three times previously been champion.
The former world number one put up a typically aggressive display against Del Potro and fought back to level the match after losing the first set.
However, in the decider his Argentine opponent always had the edge and went on to complete a 6-4 5-7 6-4 victory.
Tournament officials organised a special ceremony to mark Safin's retirement straight after the match which was attended by a host of players both past and present and a clearly touched Safin stated: "It's a little bit special.
"I'm happy to get through to the second round and play Del Potro, I hope he's going to do well here. He's confident now because of me so if he's going to win it he can send me some prize money!
"This is the day where all my memories will be in one box. I'm closing one door, hopefully another door will be opened."
"It's a special feeling. It means a lot to me that you all came here to say goodbye to me."
Cheered on by a partisan crowd, Safin produced plenty of trademark groundstrokes in what was an entertaining clash with the newly-crowned US Open champion.
But having surrendered the first, he looked on course for a straight-sets defeat as he fell 0-30 behind on serve at 5-5 in the second.
He responded, though, and gave his adoring fans one final demonstration of his spirit as he held and then forced a break to force the contest into a third set.
But there Del Potro was not to be denied and held the upper hand after securing a break.
Safin defied him momentarily with a forehand finding the line to fend off one break point on his own serve, but it only delayed the inevitable as Del Potro wrapped things up on his own delivery, closing out the match with an ace.
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Comments (7)
Costanzia Tran says...
Marat Safin is my no. 1 player of all times. What's the point of winning more than what he already won? Marat remains irreplaceable, perhaps the most enigmatic character ever to grace the game, something that others can only achieve with load of grand slams and predictable clichés. Marat has chosen to leave his mark in his own way - unmistakably MS. Let's wish him the best in any endeavour he undertakes and great success in his transition.
Posted 17:53 18th November 2009
Marat Fan says...
Marat, thanks you for the memories! I remember that Aussie Open SF against Roger, I cheered for you all the way and was ecstatic you won. Although I was sad my fellow Aussie Hewitt lost to you, I can't complain. You fought hard and deserved the victory. Pity about your injuries over the years but we love you. You gave so much. We already miss you. Good luck with the next chapter of your young life.
Posted 13:18 15th November 2009
Anvoy De luna says...
safin's been great. he deserves all the love. his matches typically are very entertaining and he backed it up wiith phenomenal skill. farewell to the king of russian tennis. and tennis itself, for a few years.
Posted 18:09 11th November 2009
Jay B says...
One of the greatest entertainers...personally my favorite...Adored his passion but hated his stubbornness...had he chose to evolve his game with time he'd be amongst the top players now
Posted 17:59 11th November 2009
Mike Tuson says...
One of the most talented male players to grace the tennis court. Not many can boast winning a couple of slams and being world number one. Should've dominated the game but was unfortunate to suffer from injuries. Many fond memories....and will be truly missed. Thank you Marat
Posted 16:23 11th November 2009
Pradeep Kumar says...
thank u safin for the game u played very well.i still remember the game which u played in aussie open semi final against federrer was the best where u went on to win the open. best of luck .......
Posted 15:02 11th November 2009
Louise Mck says...
Can't believe it's the end for Marat ... He'll be sorely missed. Dunno who to follow in tennis anymore :'( What a great match though ...
Posted 14:52 11th November 2009