Martina Hingis Hangs Her Boots: Singapore

Martina Hingis, a 25-time grand slam winner has called it a career. She will play her final tournament in Singapore, at the finals of the WTA. This decision comes, after she won 9 titles in 2017, with her partner Chan Yung-Jan. They are currently ranked number one in the WTA doubles rankings. Martina Hingis says that she would like to retire when she is at the top of her game, rather than being pushed out of the sport as her form diminishes.

“People probably think, ‘After a year like this, after a season like this…’ but I think it’s also perfect timing,” Hingis said in a press conference following the match. “You know, you want to stop on top and not when you’re already going backwards.”I couldn’t ask for a better finish like that.”

Hingis said that she knew all along that she was going to retire this year. She had also confided with many of her friends. Frankly, she was surprised that the news did not leak out sooner. “My partners already knew it and the rumour was out there. I’m actually really surprised that they kept it secret that long, but the players have been really good and supportive.” Hingis also added, “I think the decision has been done already. Like I told Latisha from the start, ‘Hey, this will probably be my last year.’ So some people knew it; some didn’t.”

An illustrious career to boast about for Hingis

Martina Hingis has come back from retirement twice in her career (2003, 2007). Hingis also holds the record for being the youngest ever doubles champion at the Wimbledon. After collaborating with multiple players throughout her career, she can proudly call herself a successful doubles competitor, winning tournaments all around the globe on different surfaces. A recent partnership with Sania Mirza saw her break the longest win streak record in the women’s doubles.

We bid farewell, to one of the greats of the sport, and hope against hope that she does come back again. Here is what she had to say to her fans-

Hi Everyone!

Now that the cat is out of the bag, here we are for the third, and final time. Looking back now, it’s hard to believe that almost exactly 23 years ago I made my professional debut. The years that followed have been some of the most rewarding years of my life, both personally and professionally, but I believe the time has come for me to retire, which I will be doing after my last match here in Singapore.

I feel very lucky to have been given the opportunity to play this wonderful sport for so many years. Tennis has always been my passion and I am extremely thankful for all the challenges, opportunities, partnerships and friendships it’s given me. I am especially grateful for all the support from my mom who has taught me this beautiful game. Thanks to all the sponsors, partners, fellow players, and everyone else that helps make our hectic life on tour easier. Thank you to my team, friends and family for continuously motivating and inspiring me. And of course thank you to all my fans – you were there to support and lift me up in hard times and celebrated alongside me in days of triumph. You, and the love for the game, is what kept me coming back all those years!