Garbiñe Muguruza explains why she didn’t have a career as long as Rafael Nadal or Serena Williams

Follow us on Google Discover

Garbiñe Muguruza enjoyed an excellent career but she has explained why she did not play as long as some of the game’s greatest players.

In the modern era fans have become accustomed to seeing players compete deep into their 30s and 40s, such as Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams, all of who have played in 2024.

This is why they were left stunned when Garbiñe Muguruza announced her retirement from tennis in April 2024 at just 30 years of age.

Her final match came at the Lyon Open in January 2023. Muguruza was given a wildcard but she suffered a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Linda Noskova in round one.

Why didn’t Garbiñe Muguruza play as long as Rafael Nadal or Serena Williams?

Muguruza turned professional in 2012 before retiring in 2024. During that time she claimed 10 titles, two of which were Grand Slams and she became the World number one in 2017.

Many feel she has had a short career compared to the likes of Serena Williams who retired at 40, and compatriot Nadal, who is still playing at the age of 38.

But during a conversation with Mujerhoy.com, Muguruza cited her intense method of preparation as the reason for having a shorter career.

“I would have never said that I would do it at 30. I did know that my career wouldn’t be as long as Serena Williams or Rafa Nadal because of my own approach to sport, which has been very intense,” she said.

“Sport is dedication, sacrifice, discipline, competition. Everyone is trying to take your spot, and that wears you down a lot.

“It’s hard to maintain, it has an expiration date. Mine has been an explosive career. I’m not a consistent, regular player, I never was.”

Did Garbiñe Muguruza beat Serena Williams?

Muguruza played against Williams six times between 2013 and 2019.

They split their meetings, with Muguruza claiming both of their French Open contests, one of which came in the 2016 final.

She also won their last encounter at Indian Wells in 2019, when Williams retired from the contest due to injury while trailing 3-6, 0-1.

Muguruza defeated Venus Williams to win the Wimbledon title in 2017. This makes the Spaniard the only player to have beaten both Williams sisters in a Grand Slam final.