Yesterday, former World No.1 and five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova took the tennis world by surprise when she announced her retirement from the game.
Perhaps the only indication of her impending departure was her recent downward spiral on the courts. Two quick exits from Brisbane and Melbourne—the only events she competed in this season—and injuries dragged her down to World No. 373.
Still, she remains a member of the elite club of career Slam winners, raising all four championship trophies including the Wimbledon crown she earned when she was only 17 years old.
Her retirement from tennis will leave a void on the WTA Tour, and a number of players were quick to acknowledge her legacy.
Monica Puig, who won Olympic gold in 2016, thanked the 32-year-old for supporting her in some of the most difficult moments in her life.
World No.11 Petra Kvitova saluted their hard-fought battles and expressed her tremendous respect for her rival’s dedication.
Australian Daria Gavrilova affirmed that Maria Sharapova would always be a role model for her and so many kids who want to play tennis.
ATP greats and tennis legends also took the time to bid her farewell. Novak Djokovic, Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova had only good things to say.
ATP greats and tennis legends also took the time to bid her farewell. Novak Djokovic and Billie Jean King had only good things to say.
A fan favourite here in Montréal, Maria will definitely be missed at the 2020 Rogers Cup.
We wish her all the best in this new chapter!
