By Anett Kontaveit startled the tennis community on Tuesday (June 20) when she announced her retirement just one year after hitting her all-time high position of World No. 2.
While 2022 was a successful year for the Estonian, 2023 did not go as well since Kontaveit was unable to compete at the highest level due to several problems, most notably a back issue. She was eliminated in the second round of the Australian Open, the first round of the French Open, and a few other early rounds at other significant events.
The 27-year-old, who is ranked No. 79 in the world, recently reassured supporters that although her back ailment was a chronic problem, she had sufficiently handled it to continue her professional tennis career.
Anett Kontaveit, however, announced on Tuesday that, on the recommendation of her medical staff, she was quitting her career. The former World No. 2 finds it nearly hard to participate or even practise at the level necessary for the high-stakes world of competitive tennis due to the lumbar disc degeneration in her back.
Hi friends, today I am announcing that I am ending my career as a competitive athlete. After several doctor’s visits and consultations with my medical team, I have been advised that I have lumbar disc degeneration in my back.
This does not allow for full-scale training or continued competition. Therefore, it is impossible to continue at the top level in such a highly competitive field,” she added.
Tennis has given and taught me a lot, and I am very grateful for that. It has been important for me to bring the Estonian flag to the tennis courts and to be able to play in front of my supporters and fans all over the world.
I am ready for new challenges after my last effort as a professional tennis player – to enjoy the game and compete as hard as I can at Wimbledon. Thank you, everyone, for your continuous support,” she added.
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