‘This is a Bittersweet Decision’ – 41-Year-Old Roger Federer Announces Retirement From Tennis

Today, 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer announced shocking news to all of his fans. Earlier, he took to social media and announced his retirement from professional tennis.

Notably, he took to Instagram and shared two posts. In one of the posts, he shared an audio message where he talked about his decision, and in another post, he shared some pictures of a written document.

Roger Federer announces retirement from professional tennis

In his statement, he says, “As many of you know, 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… now I must recognize when it is time to end my competitive career.”

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“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. This is a bittersweet decision, because I will miss everything the tour has given me…” he further said. 

In that statement, he also thanked his wife, Mirka Federer, for always supporting him during his good and bad times. “I would like to especially thank my amazing wife Mirka, who has lived through every minute with me. She has warmed me up before finals, watched countless matches even while over 8 months pregnant, and has endured my goofy side on the road with my team for over 20 years,” he added.

Later, he further thanked his coach, Ivan Ljubicic, and his manager, Tony. Also, he showed gratitude toward his fans and competitors on and off the court. He remembers his journey of the past 24 years, starting from a ball kid to becoming one of the greatest tennis players ever.

As per Federer‘s statement, the Laver Cup later this month will be his final tournament on the ATP tour. However, he said will play in future matches but not in Grand Slam tournaments or any other ATP tournaments.

Federer is likely to miss the Basel Indoors

Meanwhile, it seems like Federer will not be able to end his career on his home soil, as he will probably miss the Basel Indoors, which was scheduled in October. Earlier, Federer announced his participation in this tournament, which made many fans really happy.

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Apart from that, he also wished to play in Wimbledon next year and wanted to come back for a full season. Unfortunately, it seems like the knee injury will keep him out of tennis forever. Nevertheless, in the eyes of many fans, he will probably still remain the G.O.A.T.