All About Tennis Retirement – Who’s Leaving and What’s Next?

If you love the sport, you probably keep an eye on the retirement board as often as the leaderboard. Every season a few big names decide it’s time to swap their racket for something else – coaching, commentary, or just a well‑earned break. In this guide we break down the most recent retirements, why players make the call, and what they tend to do after their final match.

Big Names Who Said Goodbye

Last month, veteran Janice Tjen made headlines by announcing she will retire after a stellar collegiate run. Her decision mirrors a growing trend: players walking away while still at the top of their game, preferring to end on a high note rather than risk a slow fade. Earlier this year, several former tour pros also stepped off the court. The reasons vary – chronic injuries, a desire for family time, or the feeling that they’ve achieved everything they set out to do.

One of the most talked‑about retirements was that of a former Grand Slam champion who announced his exit during a press conference in London. He cited “the grind of travel and the physical toll” as the main reasons, a sentiment echoed by many who have spent a decade or more on the circuit. Fans reacted with a mix of sadness and celebration, flooding social media with career highlights and wish‑you‑the‑best messages.

It’s not just the men’s side. Women’s tennis saw a high‑profile retirement when a doubles specialist stepped away after a 12‑year career. She said she wants to focus on her new role as a mentor for young British players – a common path for retirees who want to give back to the sport.

Life After the Net

What happens after the final bow? Most players transition into coaching or commentary, leveraging their on‑court experience to help the next generation or explain the game to viewers. For example, the former world No. 5 has already signed a deal with a major sports broadcaster, offering insights that only a former champion can provide.

Business ventures are another popular route. A few ex‑players have launched tennis academies, equipment brands, or even sports‑tech startups. Their credibility helps attract investors and customers who trust a name that’s earned respect on the ATP or WTA tours.

Some retirees choose a complete lifestyle change. A recent retiree announced plans to study sports psychology, hoping to support athletes dealing with pressure and mental health challenges. Others simply enjoy the freedom to travel, spend time with family, or pursue hobbies they put on hold while competing.

Whatever the path, the move from professional tennis to post‑career life is rarely abrupt. Most players announce their intentions months in advance, giving fans and sponsors time to say goodbye and plan for the next chapter. The tennis community stays closely knit, and you’ll often see retired players cheering from the sidelines at the very tournaments where they once competed.

Keeping up with retirement news is easier than ever thanks to dedicated sports outlets and the players’ own social media channels. Follow the official announcements, watch the press conferences, and you’ll always know who’s stepping away and what exciting plans they have ahead.

So the next time you hear a favorite athlete’s name paired with the word “retirement,” you’ll know it’s not an ending but the start of a new adventure. Whether they become coaches, commentators, entrepreneurs, or simply enjoy a well‑deserved vacation, their love for tennis often stays alive in the next phase of their lives.