Santoro bids farewell

Fabrice Santoro's 20-year French Open singles career came to end on Wednesday.

"The Magician" bows out at Roland Garros

Fabrice Santoro's 20-year French Open singles career came to end on Wednesday. Christophe Rochus needed just a few minutes to complete victory over the French veteran, their clash having been halted with the Belgian a game from victory the previous evening. Santoro, who made his debut at Roland Garros way back in 1989, is to retire at the end of the season and was unable to add one final victory to his record. After the duo returned to the court on Wednesday, the 36-year-old held serve, forcing his opponent to serve it out. But Rochus duly held his nerve to clinch a 6-3 6-1 3-6 6-4 victory. On Tuesday evening, Santoro had shown glimpses of the shotmaking ability, particularly in the third set, that earned him the nickname 'The Magician'. "I started my career some 20 years ago on Court 10 and I did not expect to finish it here with a mike in my hands, talking to you," Santoro told the crowd who were giving him a standing ovation. "So, if I get it right, I will not be back next year?"