Roger Federer set for tennis retirement in September
As one of the most impressive tennis players of all-time, perhaps the most impressive, Roger Federer is a name who transcends tennis. The Swiss sporting legend has been around for what feels like forever, and has constantly enjoyed success at the very highest level of the sport. Time waits for no man or woman, though, and this time it looks like Father Time has caught up with Federer himself.
In an announcement made today, the Swiss noted that he would retiring after the Laver Cup later in September. In a shock announcement, tennis was taken by surprise. The usually calm and composed Swiss, though, was visibly emotional in his message. Having won a ludicrous 20 Grand Slam events in his career, Federer has confirmed that the Laver Cap, a team-based event, will be his final run as a tennis player.
Having not played since 2021 after Wimbledon, the Swiss legend confirmed that his third knee surgery treatment has left him realising that it is time to end his “competitive career.”
Whilst that still leaves open the chance for him to play at exhibition events and the like, this will be the last time we see Federer take part in a competitive tennis event.
What did Roger Federer say about his retirement?
In a statement released via his social media channels in a recording, Federer announced he was exiting in the game. In a typically poignant and intelligent message, Federer said: “To my tennis family and beyond, Of all the gifts that tennis has given me over the years, the greatest, without a doubt, has been the people I’ve met along the way: my friends, my competitors, and most of all the fans who give the sport its life. Today, I want to share some news with all of you,
“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. 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 drama, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career.”
Noting that it is as good a time as any to stop, Federer added: “This is a bittersweet decision, because I will miss everything the tour has given me. But at the same time, there is so much to celebrate. I consider myself one of the most fortunate people on Earth. I was given a special talent to play tennis, and I did it at a level that I never imagined, for much longer than I ever thought was possible.”
While it will be sad not to see arguably the greatest of all-time compete further, it is a totally understandable choice. Having given tennis so much across his legendary career, it is now time to rest and relax.
