Tennis legend Roger Federer on Thursday, 15 September, announced that he will retire from the sport following the Laver Cup, which is scheduled to be held in the last week of September.
“The past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognize when it is time to end my competitive career. The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour.”Roger Federer
Federer thanked his wife, children, parents, team, and sponsors in an emotional retirement announcement. Moreover, he also thanked his competitors. He said:
The winner of 20 grand slams, Federer also said, “The last 24 years on tour have been an incredible adventure… I have had the immense fortune to play in front of you in over 40 different countries.”
Roger Federer won his first grand slam in 2003, when he won the Wimbledon title, and went on to win six Australian Opens, one French Open, eight Wimbledons, and five US Open titles since. He has been suffering from a knee injury for the last few years.
“I would also like to thank my competitors on the court. I was lucky enough to play so many epic matches that I will never forget. We battled fairly, with passion and intensity, and I always tried my best to respect the history of the game. I feel extremely grateful. We pushed each other, and together we took tennis to new levels.”
In his illustrious career which spanned across over two decades, Federer has won a record eight men’s grand slam titles. Besides that, he won the Australian Open five tiles, the US Open men’s singles title five times, and also lifted the French Open silverware in 2009.
Besides that, Federer has also won two medals for his country in the Olympics – a gold in men’s doubles in 2008 and a silver in men’s singles in 2012.
Sport Stars React to Federer's Retirement
Former India cricket team captain Mithali Raj reacted to Federer's retirement news, and said, "Grace and elegance personified, the title of GOAT suits you well Roger Federer. Thank you for all the memories, champ."
Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz said, "Roger has been one of my idols and a source of inspiration! ?Thank you for everything you have done fo our sport! I still want to play with you! Wish you all the luck in the world for what comes next!"
Sania Mirza also shared a photo with Federer with a caption that said, "Will tennis ever be the same?"
"What a career Roger Federer. Truly greatest of all times," former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar said.
"Farewell to the GOAT! Congratulations on an immense career Roger Federer," Indian cricketer Surya Kumar Yadav tweeted.
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