“Every day I felt like I was chasing something.” Shelby Rogers recently opened up about the physical and mental toll that years of competition have taken on her. Known for her tenacity and resilience, the American tennis player officially announced her retirement from professional tennis following the 2024 US Open. She shared the news just days before her final singles match against Jessica Pegula at the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium. Although she didn’t win the match, Rogers leaves the sport with a legacy of achievements and cherished memories that have defined her tennis journey.

The Arthur Ashe Stadium held great memories for Rogers, including her stunning upset of then-No-.1 Ashleigh Barty in 2021. However, as she prepared for her last tournament, Rogers acknowledged the mounting injuries that had plagued her career, speaking to wtatennis, she said, “It just started to become mentally exhausting.” However, in her final match against Pegula, Rogers fought valiantly but ultimately lost 6-4, 6-3.

Shelby Rogers faced a series of injuries that ultimately led to her decision to retire from tennis after the 2024 US Open. From shoulder and wrist issues to oblique, back, and hamstring problems, Shelby Rogers found herself in a relentless cycle of compensating for one injury while another surfaced. Despite her determined efforts to regain full health, a meniscus injury set off a chain reaction of other complications, making it increasingly challenging for her to compete at the highest level.

After the match, both players paused to celebrate Rogers’ career, with Pegula visibly emotional as she reflected on their long-standing friendship and shared experiences on the court. Over her 14-year career, Rogers compiled a professional record of 307-262 and earned over $5.6 million in prize money. Though she did not win a title at the WTA Tour level, she reached three finals and made notable progress at major tournaments, including quarterfinal appearances at the French Open in 2016 and the US Open in 2020.

After a rigorous rehabilitation process and experiencing a diminishing joy from the sport, Rogers realized it was time to step away. Now, with her focus set on retiring from a sport that gave her so much, what do you think this tennis star will pursue now that she’s off the court?

Rogers is set to embrace a new chapter in her life

As Shelby Rogers steps away from professional tennis after the 2024 US Open, she looks forward to embracing a new chapter focused on personal growth and quality time with her loved ones. After dedicating over a decade to the sport she loves, she is excited to be home in Fort Lauderdale for longer than just a few weeks at a time, allowing her to fully immerse herself in family life.

She looks forward to spending quality time with her husband, John, and celebrating milestones with her family, such as her nieces’ birthdays and holidays. And is particularly eager to spend time with her dogs—new rescue puppy Maple and seven-year-old Tilly. She also plans to explore other interests, including potentially returning to commentary work for Tennis Channel, which she enjoyed after her first surgery.

Shelby Rogers’ retirement marks the end of an era, but her legacy extends far beyond her on-court achievements. She has inspired countless individuals with her resilience, faith, and unwavering passion for the sport. So as she takes a well-deserved break, she can reflect on her remarkable journey with pride, knowing that she gave her all to the game she loves.