Tennis legend Roger Federer has announced he will retire from top-level professional tennis later this month.
The 20-time Grand Slam singles champion, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, has confirmed that next week’s Laver Cup in London will be his final ATP event.
You will recall that
Federer has not played tennis in any
tournament since undergoing knee surgery, his third operation in an 18-month period, following his quarterfinal exit at last year’s Wimbledon.
The Swiss maestro will finish his career with the third-most Grand Slam singles titles among men, behind only Rafael Nadal (22) and Novak Djokovic (21).
In an emotional letter posted on social media, Federer explained his decision to step away from the professional game.
“As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries,” he wrote.
“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 1,500 matches over 24 years.
“Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end.
Discussion about this post