Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova concluded her professional tennis career with an emotional exit at the US Open on Monday, marking the end of a 20-year journey defined by resilience and Grand Slam glory. The Czech star fell in her first-round match but left with her head held high, reflecting on triumphs that transcended rankings.
"I'm very proud of how I handled the pressure," Kvitova told reporters. "Even though I never reached World No. 1, those two Wimbledon titles mean more. The beauty of tennis is that everything on the court is your fault or your win – that's what I'll miss."
Kvitova's career saw 31 titles, including her iconic 2011 and 2014 Wimbledon victories, and a career-high No. 2 ranking. Her comeback from a traumatic 2016 home invasion – which left her dominant left hand severely injured – became a testament to her determination. The 35-year-old recently returned from 17 months of maternity leave before announcing her planned retirement earlier this summer.
As fans worldwide celebrate her legacy, Kvitova's story resonates beyond sports: a narrative of perseverance that saw her overcome physical and emotional challenges to remain competitive at the highest level. Her final professional appearance at Flushing Meadows closes a chapter for one of tennis' most admired fighters.
