There were several factors that contributed to the show ending:
* The cast's contracts were expiring. The main cast members were all nearing the end of their contracts, and many wanted to explore other opportunities.
* The show's creators wanted to end on a high note. They felt that after 10 seasons, they had told all the stories they wanted to tell and didn't want to risk the quality of the show declining.
* The show's popularity was starting to decline. While "Friends" remained popular, its ratings had begun to slip in its final season, suggesting that the audience may have been ready for a change.
Ultimately, the decision to end "Friends" was a mutual one between the cast, creators, and network. They all felt that it was time for the show to come to an end, and they wanted to do it in a way that would satisfy the fans.