Roger Federer followed Serena Williams to the exit, leaving competitive tennis at age 41 as one of the most decorated players of all-time.
Federer, who has 20 Grand Slam titles, plans a farewell appearance at the Laver Cup in London next week. He said it would be his final regular appearance in competitive tennis.
“As many of you know, the past three years have presented many challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries,” Federer said in a statement on social media Thursday. “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’m 41 years old. I’ve 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.”
Only rivals Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic own more Grand Slam singles titles than Federer, who said he plans to keep playing tennis outside of Grand Slams and the ATP Tour. The trio, along with Andy Murray, comprise Team Europe at the Laver Cup, which begins Sept. 23.
Federer last played competitively at Wimbledon in 2021 and underwent knee surgery in August.
He retires with a career record of 1251-275, with 103 ATP titles and on-court earnings of $130.6 million.
Federer won his first Grand Slam title in 2003 at Wimbledon, a tournament he’d go on to win a men’s record eight times.
Wimbledon paid tribute to Federer on its Twitter account.
“It’s been a privilege to witness your journey and see you become a champion in every sense of the word,” the message read. “We will so miss the sight of you gracing our courts, but all we can say for now is thank you, for the memories and joy you have given to so many.”
And Nadal, rival turned friend, also offered his words to Federer.
“We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that,” Nadal posted to Twitter. “For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London.”
–Field Level Media
