BRUSSELS, October 23, 2026 (via Media Release)
David Goffin brought his remarkable tennis career to an emotional close at the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open on Thursday, losing his final singles match to US-American Alex Michelsen before receiving a heartfelt tribute on Centre Court.
Goffin returned to Centre Court following his dramatic victory on Wednesday, facing another tough challenge in the tournament’s fifth seed. Hoping to extend his farewell by at least one more match, the 35-year-old Belgian aimed to build on the impressive tennis that had secured his opening-round victory.
Goffin made a sharper start than the previous day, playing with his trademark elegance and looking to put Michelsen under pressure. However, the US-American soon demonstrated his quality, showing remarkable consistency and keeping unforced errors to a minimum. Michelsen broke Goffin’s serve in the sixth game before holding his nerve to take the opening set 6-3.
The Belgian continued to fight in the second set, aiming to reach the 65th quarter-final of his career and his fourth at the tournament. He took more risks but surrendered his serve in the fifth game following a double fault. Despite his efforts, Goffin was unable to turn the match around, although he still produced flashes of brilliance, including four aces in a single service game. Michelsen eventually sealed victory with a powerful serve, bringing Goffin’s final singles appearance to an end.
An emotional tribute to a Belgian tennis great
Following the match, Goffin was honoured in a moving on-court ceremony celebrating his outstanding career. The Belgian received a special trophy in recognition of his achievements and was surprised with heartfelt video messages from family members and fellow players, including Richard Gasquet, Grigor Dimitrov and Rafael Nadal.
Merci David 🥹
Paying tribute to David Goffin as his singles career comes to a close in Brussels 🤝
@David__Goffin https://t.co/duRHuKWAmM
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 22, 2026
The tribute provided an emotional moment for the home crowd, marking the end of an exceptional career that saw Goffin reach world No. 7 and establish himself as one of Belgium’s most successful tennis players.
“I want to thank everyone for the incredible support I’ve received throughout my career,” Goffin said. “First and foremost, my family, who have always stood by me, and especially my wife and daughter for all the sacrifices they have made. I also want to thank my team and all my opponents, who have constantly pushed me to my limits. And of course, the fans, for their unwavering support throughout my career and especially this week. It has been a wonderful week, one that will forever hold a special place in my heart.”
