“This is my first time here, but I know the team working behind the event, and I have always admired the passion, dedication, professionalism, and warmth with which they organize these events. I watched many clips from the 2019 edition with Simona Halep, and I was wondering what it would be like to take part in such a match. And now, here I am. This event is very emotional for me—it’s the first time I have my family, friends, former partners, and fans all together. I want us to enjoy this journey we shared with a tennis match,” said Horia Tecău about his hosts, the organizers of the Sports Festival.
The three-time Grand Slam champion then spoke about each of his guests.
Horia, for Simona: “I’m happy you’re here, and I think my last mixed doubles match will be with you before I take the microphone and say goodbye as a player. After everything we’ve experienced together, starting from the same sports club, watching each other grow, playing on the biggest stages, fulfilling our dreams, supporting each other, and exchanging advice, now we are here. It’s a pleasure to share this moment with you.”
For Bethanie Mattek-Sands: “She arrived yesterday from Phoenix just for this event! I appreciate her so much—she’s one of my closest friends on the tour. In 2012, when we teamed up at the Australian Open, we had so much fun on the court, and we won what was a first Grand Slam title for both of us. Our friendship is something I cherish, and I know that if I ever visit Phoenix, she’ll invite me to a barbecue (laughs).”
For Robert Lindstedt: “Robert, I saved you for last because you deserve it (laughs). Robert was my partner for three years, and when I first played professionally in doubles, he was my mentor. He had more experience, and I truly appreciate the moments we shared. From you, I learned that if something bothers you about your partner, you should tell them until they get it (laughs).”
Horia’s guests
Simona on Horia’s retirement match: “It’s a very emotional moment. Horia has always been a role model, as he was a few years older than us. We started from the same place, with the same coaches, and I have always admired him. I also admire the way he is handling this moment—it’s not easy to close such a significant chapter of your life. I congratulate him for knowing when to stop and start a new life. I wish you to enjoy what’s ahead and to be proud of what you have achieved. The fact that you are a role model for children is something truly special, and I congratulate you for that. I wish you all the best—may you be happy and enjoy every moment of life. You deserve it!”
Bethanie’s message for Horia: “It took me 24 hours to get to Cluj, but you have to do whatever it takes for your first partner (smiles). We had a great time playing together, and we built a friendship that extended beyond the court and will continue. What a career! It’s always hard to accept that things come to an end, but when you feel the moment has arrived, you have to take that step. You’re now the Fed Cup captain, so maybe we’ll see each other again. Thank you so much for the invitation—it’s a pleasure to be here.”
Robert Lindstedt’s message: “When we started playing together, I was older, and I gave you a lot of information that you had to process, but here we are—I think it worked (laughs). Unfortunately, we couldn’t win the Grand Slam title we wanted, but we built a great friendship. Horia knows that if he ever needs anything, I will take the first flight to help him—that’s something beyond tennis.”
Simona Halep on being Horia’s last partner: “It’s an honor, and I’m happy I had the chance to play official tournaments with him. It was a special experience—he was my only mixed doubles partner. I have some nerves, but this will be an extraordinary event. I’ve had similar moments in Cluj before, and I can’t wait!”
Patrick Ciorcilă on organizing Horia’s retirement match: “It’s a team effort, and Horia has been very involved in this event for weeks now—much of it is thanks to him. It is a great responsibility and honor to be here because Horia chose us to celebrate his career. We have more experience compared to 2019, and I’m honored to be part of this.”
