Roger Federer, Swiss tennis giant, to retire from official competition after Laver Cup

Roger Federer, the Swiss tennis player, has decided to retire from official competition at the age of 41. “The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in grand slams or on the tour,” Federer wrote in a post uploaded on Twitter.

Federer also posted the same as a voice note on Twitter. 

“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 in his note. 

“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 dreamt, and now I must recognize when it is time to end my competitive career.” 

Roger Federer has won 20 Grand Slams. For his success, Federer thanked his wife, parents and his sister. Of his wife Mirka, Federer wrote: “She had warmed me up before finals, watched countless matches even whole over 8-months pregnant and has endured by goofy side on the road with my team for over 20 years.” 

On the announcement of Federer’s retirement, Raphael Nadal, once Federer’s arch nemesis, wrote: “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 honour and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court.” 

“We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that. For now, I truly wish all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London @LaverCup,” Nadal wrote.