Garbine Muguruza of Spain, a two-time Grand Slam women’s singles champion, announced her retirement from professional tennis at the age of 30 on Saturday.
“I feel that it is time to retire and open up a new chapter in my life,” Muguruza said at a press conference in Madrid. Her announcement marks the end of a remarkable career that inspired many across the globe, including aspiring tennis players in Asia.
Muguruza has been absent from the professional circuit for over a year. The last major title she secured was the prestigious Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Finals in 2021, where she defeated Estonia’s Anett Kontaveit with a score of 6-3, 7-5. This victory solidified her status as one of the leading figures in women’s tennis.
In April 2023, Muguruza extended her hiatus, expressing a desire to spend more “amazing” time with her family and friends. Her retirement comes as both a surprise and a reflection of the challenges athletes face balancing personal life and professional commitments.
Muguruza’s impact on the sport reaches far beyond her homeland. Her powerful playing style and determination have resonated with tennis enthusiasts worldwide, including those in Asia, where tennis continues to grow in popularity. Her matches against top Asian players have been highlights in tournaments, contributing to the sport’s development in the region.
As the tennis community reflects on Muguruza’s career, her retirement opens discussions on the future of women’s tennis and the emerging talents ready to fill the void she leaves behind. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many young athletes aspiring to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
