Three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber has announced that the upcoming Paris Olympics will be the last event of her illustrious career.
Previously ranked world No.1 for 34 weeks, the German won the Australian Open and US Open in 2016 as she added to her Grand Slam collection at Wimbledon two years later.
Kerber participated in her first professional match in 18 months during the recent United Cup in Australia after giving birth to her daughter, Liana.
The 36-year-old shared the news on social media as she prepares for life after tennis.
"The finish line. Before the Olympics begin, I can already say that I will never forget Paris 2024, because it will be my last professional tournament as a tennis player," Kerber confirmed. "And whereas this might actually be the right decision, it will never feel that way. Simply because I love the sport with all my heart and I’m thankful for the memories and opportunities it has given me.
"The Olympics, I’ve participated in so far, have been more than just competitions as they represent different chapters of my life as a tennis player: the climb, the peak… and now, the finish line.
"The Olympics in London 2012 came at a time, when I had my breakthrough season on the tour. I was climbing the rankings steadily and every win helped me overcome my doubts & strengthened my self-belief. It all felt like new beginnings and I was carried by excitement to new heights. The year before, in 2011, I had almost turned my back on tennis and given up on my childhood dreams.
"When I arrived at the Olympics in Rio 2016, I had just won my first Grand Slam title in Australia at the beginning of the year. My silver medal run was embedded in a rush of emotions that led to my second Grand Slam title in New York and the top of the rankings. The descent in the following year was hurtful, but I learned my lesson and Wimbledon 2018 was my biggest reward.
"And now: Paris 2024 will mark the finish line of the most incredible journey I could have ever dreamed of growing up with a racket in my hand. There are many more things I want to say and people to thank, which I will do once I completed my last match…but for now, I will take the time and soak up every second of this final episode on court. Thank you all for your support - it means the world to me ❤️🙏🏼❤️ #TeamAngie."
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