Tennis great Roger Federer announced his retirement from professional tennis on Thursday.
The announcement was made in both a video and a written statement shared on social media that noted next week’s match will be his last.
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022
The statement
“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,” Federer wrote.
“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,” he added.
Breaking: Roger Federer announced his retirement from tennis at age 41. He won 20 major titles and is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. https://t.co/NxabNoI661
— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) September 15, 2022
His career
Federer ends his career with 20 Grand Slam victories, the third-most of any professional male tennis player.
He also became the oldest male athlete to rank number 1 in the ATP rankings in 2018 at the age of 36.
To my tennis family and beyond,
With Love,
Roger pic.twitter.com/1UISwK1NIN— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022
Federer noted that the Laver Cup in London will serve as his final match, saying he will play more tennis in the future, but not at the Grand Slams or the tour.
Dear Roger,my friend and rival.
I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world.
It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 15, 2022
The news has led to many tributes from fellow players and fans as Federer marks an end to his legendary career.