Today, former French tennis icon Jo-Wilfried Tsonga celebrates his 40th birthday.
Born in Le Mans, France, Jo-Wilfried`s path to athletic greatness was paved by his family. His father, Didier, a former handball player turned chemistry teacher, and his mother, Evelyne, also an educator, instilled in him a strong foundation. He grew up alongside his younger sister Sarah and brother Enzo.
Tsonga`s tennis journey began at the age of seven, quickly showcasing his talent on the junior circuit. In 2003, he clinched the prestigious US Open junior title and reached the semi-finals in the other three Grand Slam junior events. That year, he was ranked No. 2 junior in the world, just behind Marcos Baghdatis.
Turning professional in 2004, Tsonga swiftly made his mark, securing titles on the Futures and Challenger circuits and notching wins in ATP main draws. However, subsequent seasons were hampered by injuries, limiting his ATP tournament appearances.
His breakthrough year came in 2007. Tsonga`s remarkable ascent from 212th to 43rd in the world rankings earned him the ATP Newcomer of the Year award.
The year 2008 saw Tsonga`s sensational surge to the Australian Open final, where he faced Novak Djokovic. This achievement propelled him into the Top 20. He reached his career-high ranking of world No. 5 on February 27, 2012. His Grand Slam record includes semi-final appearances at the French Open (2013, 2015) and Wimbledon (2011, 2012).
Throughout his career, Tsonga amassed 18 ATP titles, including Masters 1000 victories in Paris and Toronto. He also contributed to France`s Davis Cup triumph in 2017. His career earnings totaled $22,524,073.
Family life is also central to Tsonga`s world. He and his wife, Noura El Shwekh, are parents to two sons and are anticipating the arrival of their third child.
Tsonga retired from professional tennis in May 2022, with the French Open as his final tournament. He is now focused on business ventures, leading his company, All In Groupe.
