Two-time Grand Slam champion posts emotional message as she retires from tennis at the US Open 

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Several Grand Slam legends have retired from tennis recently, leaving behind remarkable legacies.

In 2024, Andy Murray retired from tennis after the Olympic Games, hanging up his racket as a three-time major champion and former world number one.

He was soon joined in retirement by 22-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal, who played his final match at the Davis Cup Finals.

Austria’s Dominic Thiem was another major winner to retire last year, calling it quits in Vienna after years of injury difficulties.

On the WTA Tour, Simona Halep retired earlier this year, finishing her career with two Grand Slam titles to her name.

Another two-time Grand Slam champion retired from tennis at this year’s US Open, and she has now posted an emotional message to social media, reflecting on her legendary career.

Petra Kvitova admits she will ‘miss tennis’ in emotional retirement message

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova played the final match of her career at the US Open, losing to Frenchwoman Diane Parry in the first round.

Taking the time to collect her thoughts, Kvitova has now shared a lengthy message with her fans on social media.

“Tennis – it’s tough to put into words how much I will miss you,” she said.

“You have been my greatest teacher, my toughest challenge, and my lifelong love. You shaped me into a fighter, you gave me reason to believe in my dreams, and you gave me the best moments of my life. I always found peace while playing.

“I felt like being Petra Kvitova was being out there alone, fighting for every last point, celebrating with a pojd, losing with grace.

“Tennis, you are part of my identity and always will be.”

Kvitova then took the time to thank those who coached her throughout her career.

“To my coach and husband Jiri, my team and my family – thank you,” she said.

“For every tear, and every triumph. We have been through it all and more! My career would not have been possible without your dedication and belief in me.

“Thank you, also, to all the coaches who worked with me along the way; you shaped me into the player I became.”

The Czech star finished off her message by saying one final thank you to her many supporters.

“To my fans – your love and support lifted me through the highs and the lows. You cheered me on through every match, and I felt your energy with me every step of the way,” said Kvitova.

“I will miss my Team Petra, but we are Team Petra forever.

“This isn’t goodbye to tennis completely. I’m stepping into a new chapter of my life, and though I don’t know exactly what it will look like yet, I’m excited to be home with my son, Petr, and to put my suitcases to one side for now.

“With love, Petra.”

Kvitova will no doubt enjoy retirement, where she will have plenty of time to reflect upon a brilliant career.

Petra Kvitova’s career achievements

Turning professional in 2006, Kvitova performed at the highest level for several years, winning some of the sport’s biggest titles.

• Grand Slam titles – 2 (Wimbledon 2011, 2014)
• WTA 1000 titles – 9
• WTA Finals titles – 1
• WTA titles – 31
• Olympic medals – 1 (Bronze 2016)
• Career-high ranking – 2
• Top-ten wins – 64 (Six v #1)

After winning her maiden Grand Slam at Wimbledon in 2011, Kvitova added a second to her trophy cabinet three years later, defeating Eugenie Bouchard in the final.

She also won nine WTA 1000 titles and the WTA Finals, picking up a mouthwatering 64 top-ten wins throughout her career.

Kvitova did, however, fail to reach number one in the world rankings, missing out on the top spot by just 115 points back in 2011.

Even without a stint atop the world rankings, Kvitova still enjoyed a hall-of-fame-worthy career, entertaining fans of women’s tennis for almost 20 years.