Tennis great Roger Federer on Thursday, September 15 announced his retirement from professional tennis. The 20-time Grand Slam champion will hang up his boots after the Laver Cup in London this year. One of the greatest sporting heroes to have ever walked the planet, Federer signs off with a legacy that will be tough to match in the years to come.
Federer, 41, confirmed that he would continue to be associated with tennis but the Laver Cup, starting September 23 will be his final tournament on the tour.
Federer had not ruled out a comeback despite not having played on the tour since his quarter-final appearance at Wimbledon in 2021. However, the Swiss great said his body, which has battled with persistent knee
injury concerns in the recent past, has sent him a clear message.
Federer attended the Wimbledon Centre Court's centenary event earlier this year wherein he said he hoped to play in London at least one more time. Federer was also expected to make his professional comeback at his home tournament in Basel. However, after having had 3 knee surgeries in the last 2 years, Federer has taken the "bittersweet" call.
"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 dear. I am 41 years old," Federer said on Instagram.