Roger Federer Announces ‘Bittersweet’ Retirement From Tennis: I ‘Know My Body’s Capacities’
usmagazine.comThe end of an era. Roger Federer announced that he will retire from tennis following his appearance at the Laver Cup later this month.“As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries,” the athlete, 41, wrote in an emotional letter shared via Instagram on Thursday, September 15. “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.”The 20-time Grand Slam winner continued: “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 recognize when it is time to end my competitive career.”The Switzerland native went on to say that his final event with the ATP Tour will be the Laver Cup, which will begin in London on Friday, September 23. “I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour,” he 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 possible.”The Olympic gold medalist also thanked his wife, Mirka Federer, and the couple’s four children for their support over the years.
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